Evaluation and analysis of spatial equilibrium of water resources in Anhui Province

To analyze the imbalance in the spatial distribution of water resources in Anhui Province, an indicator system was constructed using the water resource load index, water-land resource matching coefficient, and water use efficiency index. The absolute connection strength value (P_i) and relative connection strength value (N_i) of 16 prefecture-level cities in Anhui Province from 2014 to 2018 were calculated by coupling the set pair analysis method with the gravity model. The results showed that a trend of P_i < N_i in most cities in Anhui Province, and the comprehensive strength of water resources was difficult to meet the needs of urban development to a certain extent, presenting an unbalanced development of water resources, and forming a spatial pattern of water resources distribution with southern Anhui (mainly Huangshan City and Xuancheng City) as the core. It showed a certain difference from the economic distribution centered on central Anhui (mainly Hefei City), and a relatively large difference from the cultivated land distribution centered on northern Anhui Province. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a scientific and reasonable water resources allocation plan to alleviate the spatial imbalance of regional water resources.