Project Abstract

Integrated Geophysical Approach for Groundwater Exploration and Characterization in a Coastal Region This project aims to develop an integrated geophysical approach for the comprehensive exploration and characterization of groundwater resources in a coastal region. Coastal areas are often characterized by complex hydrogeological settings, with the presence of saline water intrusion, freshwater-saltwater interfaces, and varying aquifer lithologies posing significant challenges for sustainable groundwater management. The proposed research seeks to address these challenges by employing a multifaceted geophysical investigation to obtain a detailed understanding of the subsurface environment and groundwater dynamics. The importance of this project lies in the critical role of groundwater as a vital freshwater resource, particularly in coastal regions where surface water sources may be limited or saline. Groundwater plays a crucial role in sustaining agricultural activities, domestic water supply, and industrial processes in these areas. However, the effective management and utilization of groundwater resources are often hindered by a lack of comprehensive subsurface information, leading to suboptimal well placement, saline water intrusion, and overexploitation of aquifers. The primary objective of this project is to develop an integrated geophysical methodology that can accurately delineate the hydrogeological framework, identify potential freshwater aquifers, and characterize the groundwater quality and quantity in the coastal region under investigation. The research will employ a combination of geophysical techniques, including electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), ground-penetrating radar (GPR), and electromagnetic (EM) methods, to obtain a detailed 3D model of the subsurface. The integrated geophysical data will be complemented by hydrogeological information, such as well log data, water quality analyses, and groundwater level measurements, to enhance the interpretation and accuracy of the subsurface characterization. Advanced data processing and inversion techniques will be utilized to integrate the various geophysical datasets and generate a comprehensive understanding of the groundwater system, including the identification of aquifer boundaries, depth to groundwater, and the presence of saline water intrusion. The project will also involve the development of a numerical groundwater flow and transport model to simulate the behavior of the groundwater system and assess the impacts of various management scenarios, such as groundwater extraction and seawater intrusion. This model will serve as a decision-support tool for local authorities and water resource managers, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding the sustainable development and protection of groundwater resources in the coastal region. The outcomes of this project are expected to have significant practical implications for groundwater exploration, management, and policy formulation in coastal areas. The integrated geophysical approach developed in this research can be replicated in other similar regions, providing a robust framework for the systematic and accurate characterization of groundwater resources. Additionally, the project will contribute to the advancement of geophysical methodologies and their integration with hydrogeological data for groundwater investigations in complex coastal environments.

Project Overview