Deep resistivity sounding studies for probing deep fresh aquifers in the coastal area of Orissa, India

Abstract

Exploration and exploitation of groundwater in sedimentary areas are reasonably simple. However, the problem of salinity in coastal areas makes the job very difficult, especially when the freshwater aquifers are not extensive and are entrapped between saline aquifers. States along the eastern coast of India, particularly Orissa with respect to the Mahanadi basin, have acute problems with groundwater salinity. It has been possible to locate horizons of fresh groundwater entrapped between deep saline aquifers in the southwestern part of Mahanadi delta, with the help of deep resistivity soundings along the Delang-Puri profile. This finding has been validated through boreholes and checked with electrical logs of this region. Three freshwater aquifers have been detected: one at shallow depth between 20 and 60 m, the second in the depth range of 90–160 m, and the third in the fractured/weathered basement. The second freshwater aquifer has the most potential; it has a thickness range of 20–80 m and it could be exploited to overcome problematic salinity issues. In general, the depth to basement is variable and it increases seaward.