An Integrated Fuzzy Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Method Combined with the WEAP Model for Prioritizing Agricultural Development, Case Study: Hirmand Catchment

Aims Water is a basic demand of sustainable development in every region of the world. Hirmand catchment is one of the most important cross-border of Iran basins affected by the recent drought periods from water scarcity and caused severe crisis in the Sistan region. Fuzzy theory is able to convert most incorrect and enigmatic concepts, variables and systems into a mathematical form and set the context for reasoning, deduction and decision making at uncertainty conditions. The aim of this study was to simulate the Hirmand catchment by Water Evaluation and Planning System (WEAP) model and prioritization of the implementation of agriculture development projects in Hirmand catchment. Materials & Methods In this analytical-computational study, water development projects in the study area were predicted. The effects of the water development projects predicted using WEAP model and the projects according to the economic criteria was evaluated and prioritized with Fuzzy Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Situation (TOPSIS). Ten water development projects and criteria including 5 economic indexes were considered. Findings Water transfer project to agricultural field called Zehak and Sistan were the first priorities which is needed for noticing target population to these projects. Irrigation efficiency (70%) was in the third rank among the options. Water transfer project to agricultural field called Zehak and Sistan were the first priorities which is needed for noticing target population to these projects. Irrigation efficiency (70%) was in the third rank among the options. Conclusion The remarkable thing in the ranking of scenarios is that the current account scenario (SC1) is lasted ranking that shows Sistan region’s water status, according to the study criteria is not good.