Water management is one of the most important challenges in smart agriculture. Farmers depend on reliable access to clean and regulated water to maintain healthy crops and sustainable farming practices. However, traditional water supply systems often face issues such as unauthorized access, water wastage, and poor monitoring. To solve these problems, the researchers from SRM AP introduce a blockchain-enabled dual-level authentication framework designed specifically for agricultural water supply chains.  Dr Randhir Kumar, Associate Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, along with his research scholar and Mrs Ushasri Pedibhotla has published a research paper titled “Blockchain-Enabled Dual-Layer Authentication Framework for Securing Water Supply Chains” in ACS ES & T Water Journal.

Abstract

Unauthorized use and identity theft threaten the water supply chain. Traditional systems lack transparency, tamper resistance, and scalability, making them unsuitable for multi-stakeholder contexts. Our article proposes BEDLAM, a Blockchain-Enabled Dual-Layer Authentication Model framework for water supply chain security. A blockchain-based identity management layer uses Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKPs) to verify stakeholder authentication, and a smart contract-based verification layer regulates access control, service allocation, and transaction validation among multiple entities. BEDLAM’s first layer is deployed on the Mina Blockchain using the Auro Wallet and validated using Tinkercad circuit simulations. User access is controlled by smart contracts at the second layer. Our 153-ms latency method verifies cryptographic data definitively and generates tamper-proof records. IoT devices with limited resources process sensor data to prove compliance. Several batch user simulations show linear scalability (average proof time 26 seconds per user, 0.038 transactions per second) and stability. In simulated packet loss of 40%, exponential back-off retries result in 99.3% transaction success.

Explanation in Layperson’s Terms

The first level of the framework focuses on verifying all stakeholders connected to the water supply network. Farmers, suppliers, and authorities are authenticated before they can access the system, ensuring that only approved users participate in the network. Blockchain technology securely records every activity and transaction, making the system transparent and resistant to tampering or unauthorized changes.

The second level of the framework evaluates factors such as Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) levels and the water limits assigned to each user. If the system detects excessive water usage or unsafe TDS levels, the water supply for that particular user is automatically suspended. This level also comes with a water limit for a particular user, making sure excessive water usage does not happen. This helps maintain water quality while preventing misuse and unnecessary wastage.

By combining blockchain technology with intelligent monitoring, the proposed framework improves both security and efficiency in agricultural water management. Any modification made within the system is immediately detected across the blockchain network, ensuring data integrity and transparency. This approach supports better water conservation, fair resource distribution, and a more sustainable future for smart agriculture.

Practical Implications

The research can be used in the following areas

• Water Supply Boards
• Irrigation Supply Boards
• Municipal water utilities
• Hydro electric power plants
• Ground water regulation Boards

Social Implications

• Water theft and unauthorized extraction: The smart contract physically prevents a motor from turning on unless both authentication layers pass. This means a farmer, industry, or household cannot simply tap into a pipeline and draw water beyond their quota the valve stays shut. In regions like Andhra Pradesh (where this research originates), unauthorized borewell extraction and pipeline tapping are serious governance problems.
• Privacy for marginalised users : The use of Zero-Knowledge Proofs is particularly socially significant here. A small farmer proving they hold a valid water permit does not have to reveal their identity, consumption history, or financial details to an irrigation board or government body.
• Inclusion of informal water users : Instead of requiring extensive paperwork or physical presence at government offices, a farmer’s digital wallet can supply tamper-proof credentials to irrigation authorities instantly
• Accountability without surveillance: Every transaction, every liter allocated, every access request is logged immutably on the blockchain. This creates an audit trail that regulators and communities can inspect, building public trust in water governance.
• Industrial discharge control: The TDS sensor component has a direct environmental implication. When an industrial user tries to discharge wastewater, the system checks the TDS reading against the permitted threshold. If the water is too contaminated, the ZKP assertion fails, the smart contract reverts, and discharge is blocked

Future Research Plans

• Integration of Decentralized Identity management in water supply.
• Incorporating flood management and resource management through different usage markers
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