Interactive Computer Support System for the Management of Large Rivers: The Zambezi River Case Study (original) (raw)

A bstract. The paper presents the basic concepts of an interactive PC-AT based software package IRIS for simulation analysis of various development planning and management policy options in large river systems. IRIS package together with multiobjective optimization was used to analyse problems of hydropower generation and operation of reservoirs in the Zambezi river basin. Problems of water management in the basin were discussed and approaches to solve formulated decision problem presented. Combined use of optimization and simulation techniques is discussed: proposed optimal solution of the problem was analysed in the framework of IRIS to detect the impact of modification of this solution on the system's performances, including secondary objectives. Finally, conclusions on the applicability of IRIS package are drawn .