Potential Use of Reservoirs for Mitigating Saline Intrusion in the Coastal Areas of Red River Delta

Abstract

The river flow in Red river delta though is very abundant during the high season is well faced with high potential of seawater intrusion in downstream areas due to huge water demand from upstream and invading seawater, also resulting from sea level rise. The operation of many reservoirs upstream has great effects on river regime and salinity dynamics at the downstream. The paper presents preliminary scenarios in utilizing reservoir operation to mitigate salt concentration and enhance the irrigation plan throughout the years. The increases of water release in the dry season from Hoa Binh reservoir have improved noticeably salinity downstream in most of the river networks. The thresholds of salinity were also indicated in order to support decision makings for reservoirs operation.