GROUNDWATER MAPPING

Aquifer mapping is a multi-disciplinary holistic scientific approach for aquifer characterization. It leads to aquifer-based groundwater management.

Mapping of aquifers helps determine the quantity and the quality of groundwater in a particular area, including:

  • Vertical and lateral extent of aquifers
  • Depth to water level/ piezometric surface in the aquifers
  • Productivity of the aquifers
  • Concentration of various chemical constituents in groundwater in different aquifers
  • Current stage of groundwater development in various aquifers
  • Identification of recharge and discharge areas of the aquifer
  • Delineation of vulnerable areas with regard to exploitation and contamination

All such information is required to develop a strategy of sustainable groundwater management. The benefits of aquifer mapping include the following:

  • Identifying zones for drilling productive wells.
  • Understanding of aquifer vulnerability.
  • Identification of streams at risk for reduced base flows as a result of heavy groundwater use.
  • Formulation of effective aquifer management plans.
  • Identification of areas for groundwater development, rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge.
  • Information sharing with stakeholders.