Delineating Groundwater Aquifer Potential Zones using Remote Sensing and GIS Techniques in a Coastal Region

Project Abstract

This project aims to delineate groundwater aquifer potential zones in a coastal region using a combination of remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) techniques. Groundwater is a critical resource in coastal areas, where surface water sources are often limited or saline. However, identifying and characterizing groundwater aquifers can be challenging due to the complex hydrogeological conditions in these environments. The coastal region under investigation is characterized by a dynamic interplay between surface water, groundwater, and seawater, which can lead to saline intrusion and depletion of freshwater resources. Understanding the spatial distribution and characteristics of groundwater aquifers is essential for sustainable water resource management and for identifying potential sources of freshwater supply. The project will leverage a suite of remote sensing data, including satellite imagery, digital elevation models, and geophysical surveys, to gather information about the region's geology, hydrology, and land cover characteristics. This data will be integrated into a GIS-based framework to analyze and model the groundwater system. Key components of the project include 1. Geological and hydrogeological mapping The project will involve detailed mapping of the region's geological formations, including aquifer units, aquitards, and fault structures, using remote sensing data and field-based investigations. 2. Groundwater recharge and discharge assessment The project will analyze factors influencing groundwater recharge and discharge, such as precipitation patterns, surface water features, and land use/land cover changes, using remote sensing-derived data and GIS-based modeling. 3. Groundwater quality assessment The project will assess the quality of groundwater in the region, including the presence of saline intrusion or other contaminants, using remote sensing-based proxies and field-based water quality measurements. 4. Groundwater potential zone delineation By integrating the geological, hydrogeological, and water quality data, the project will delineate groundwater aquifer potential zones, identifying areas with high, moderate, and low groundwater potential. The project's outcomes will provide valuable information for local water resource managers and policymakers, enabling them to make informed decisions about groundwater extraction, artificial recharge, and other water management strategies. Additionally, the methodologies developed in this project can be adapted and applied to other coastal regions facing similar groundwater resource challenges. The project's expected impacts include - Improved understanding of the coastal groundwater system and its interactions with surface water and seawater. - Identification of sustainable groundwater development and management strategies for the region. - Capacity building for local stakeholders in the use of remote sensing and GIS technologies for groundwater resource assessment. - Dissemination of project findings to the scientific community and relevant stakeholders, contributing to the broader knowledge base on coastal groundwater management. Overall, this project represents a significant contribution to the field of groundwater resource management in coastal environments, leveraging advanced remote sensing and GIS techniques to address critical water security challenges.

Project Overview