Potential Recharge Research Articles

Assessment of a Groundwater Potential Zone Using Geospatial Artificial Intelligence (Geo-AI), Remote Sensing (RS), and GIS Tools in Majerda Transboundary Basin (North Africa)

Groundwater in northwest Tunisia plays a vital role in supporting the domestic, agriculture, industry, and tourism sectors. However, climate change and over-exploitation have led to significant degradation in groundwater quality and quantity. Traditional spatial analysis techniques such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS) are frequently used for assessing groundwater potential and water quality. Yet, these methods are limited by data availability. The integration of Geospatial Artificial Intelligence (Geo-AI) offers improved precision in groundwater potential zone (GWPZ) delineation. This study compares the effectiveness of the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and advanced Geo-AI techniques using deep learning to map GWPZ in the Majerda transboundary basin, shared between Tunisia and Algeria. By incorporating thematic layers such as rainfall, slope, drainage density, land use/land cover (LU/LC), lithology, and soil, a comprehensive analysis was conducted to assess groundwater recharge potential. The results revealed that both methods effectively delineated GWPZ; however, the Geo-AI approach demonstrated superior accuracy with a classification accuracy rate of approximately 92%, compared to 85% for the AHP method. This indicates that Geo-AI not only enhances the quality of groundwater potential assessments but also offers a reliable alternative to traditional methods. The findings underscore the importance of adopting innovative technologies in groundwater exploration efforts in this critical region, ultimately contributing to more effective and sustainable water resource management strategies.

Modified water balance model for groundwater recharge estimations using cloud integration

Groundwater recharge is an essential element of enhancing global water governance. This is conspicuous over areas like West Bengal, India, which face natural and manmade water resource challenges. This particular study aims at improving the estimation of groundwater recharge using the Modified Water Balance Model (MWBM), which has been integrated with Google Earth Engine (GEE) and high-resolution remote sensing data here in application for groundwater. The method used consists of MODIS land surface temperature and CHIRPS precipitation data efficiently maps groundwater recharge estimation for various districts of West Bengal. The MWBM utilizes the geospatial analytic capabilities of GEE and above calculations in MWBM in creating recharge estimations that are geographically referenced. The majority of the results showed significant differences in the spatial recharge characteristics of the aquifers across the study region. High recharge was found in Alipurduar and Jalpaiguri district because of the high rainfall but low and constant recharge potential in Bankura and Purba Bardhaman districts due to less permeable rock layers. Within MWBM, improvements in groundwater management include the use of remote sensing techniques as well as modernization of computational processes to enhance recharge estimates. The present study not only aims at improving the accuracy of recharge estimation methods but also suggests a workable approach in the context of water resource management plans.

The Spatiotemporal Estimation of the Chupaderos Aquifer Groundwater Recharge for 2020 Based on the Soil Moisture Approach and Remote Sensing

Groundwater, which is widely used in arid regions due to scarcity of surface sources, has excellent quality and, under certain conditions, can be consumed directly. Human activities have caused climate change, leading to decreased precipitation and increased temperatures, which reduces water recharge and increases underground extraction volume. To estimate the natural recharge of the Chupaderos aquifer, located in the State of Zacatecas, México, a spatiotemporal analysis methodology was used, using a soil moisture balance, which includes satellite information on precipitation and temperature, to obtain infiltration, evapotranspiration, and moisture. Using a Geographic Information System (GIS), a distributed spatial model was created in which the potential recharge areas that can be defined by raster images. The results show that there is a maximum annual recharge of 137 mm in the soil where Fluvisol and Kastanozem predominate, an indicator of a texture of sandy soil and franco-sandy area, which is mainly covered by forest and scrub. This result confirms that these characteristics are indispensable for the use of water in soil. Therefore, the preservation of the ecosystem is essential for aquifer recharge.

Geomorphological Characteristics of a Hydrographic Basin using RS and GIS on the Example of the Venna River (Maharashtra, India)

Assessing the impact of geomorphological processes on a catchment's hydrology necessitates a quantitative analysis of its geometry. This can be effectively achieved using remote sensing (RS) and geographic information systems (GIS), which have become increasingly popular for supporting strategists and decision-makers in making precise and efficient plans and decisions. A morphometric analysis of the Venna River basin was conducted using RS and geographic information systems GIS. This study aims to assist local communities in effectively utilizing land and water resources for the sustainable development of the basin area. The drainage network was developed by digitizing Survey of India (SOI) toposheets. The Venna River basin, covering an area of 318.96 km², exhibits a dendritic drainage pattern with a 5thorder river system dominated by lower-order streams. A mean bifurcation ratio of 6.02 indicates undulating topography with structural influences on drainage. The basin's elongated shape is reflected in its circulatory ratio (0.3) and elongation ratio (0.38), while a form factor of 0.12 suggests low peak flows over extended durations. Low drainage density value of 0.6, indicates that basin has high permeability, slow surface runoff and value of constant of channel maintenance of 1.66 indicates basin has moderate slopes and effective infiltration. The relief ranges from 619 m to 1380 m, with a relief ratio of 0.015, indicating less resistant rock types. A ruggedness number of 0.46 suggests moderately rough terrain, allowing for some erosion potential while highlighting the basin's capacity for water retention, infiltration and sustainable resource management. The areal parameters, such as the form factor, circulatory ratio, elongation ratio and drainage density, suggest elongated basin geometry with high drainage intensity, implying slower runoff and moderate potential for groundwater recharge. The results of this study are valuable for effective watershed management, erosion control, and informed decision-making in land use planning and engineering projects.

Delineating Potential Groundwater Recharge Zones in the Semi‐Arid Eastern Plains of Rajasthan, India

ABSTRACTSurface and subsurface anomalies, hydrological conditions, and dynamic interactions between embedded thematic layers influence groundwater recharge potential (GRP). Conducting a GRP study plays an essential role in promoting the sustainable use of groundwater resources amid a growing population and unplanned urbanization. This study focuses on assessing GRP in the semi‐arid eastern plains of Rajasthan by delineating groundwater potential zones (GPZs) using an integrated approach involving remote sensing and geographical information system (RS‐GIS) technique and analytical hierarchy process (AHP) method. Research findings indicate that the region dominated by fine sand, silt and clay, pediment‐pediplain complex, aeolian sand sheet, higher drainage density, cambisols soil, river channels, floodplains, water bodies, soil hydraulic conductivity and higher surface wetness significantly contributed to good recharge potential in plains of the region. Additionally, lineaments, hills and valleys regulate water movement. A strong negative correlation (–0.78) between decadal‐mean‐depth fluctuation and GPZs frequency classes validates identifying high potential zones in areas with low mean‐depth fluctuation. Sensitivity analysis highlights geology and geomorphology as crucial factors. However, the study addresses potential limitations and challenges, such as data scaling and spatial resolution issues due to nonlinear pixel fusion algorithms and AHP method‐related limitations in model interpretation. The current study presents a convenient approach for improving groundwater resource management in hydrogeologically sensitive and drought‐prone regions.

Groundwater potential zones delineation in Oued Zdin basin using GIS, RS and hierarchical analysis process

Water scarcity poses a significant challenge, particularly in regions with limited rainfall such as Algeria, where groundwater plays a crucial role in supporting both daily life and economic activities. This research aims to evaluate the groundwater potential in the Oued Zdin basin in northern Algeria by utilizing advanced geomatics methods, particularly the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). Through the integration of Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), the study incorporates multiple datasets, including rainfall patterns, topography, geology, drainage networks, land use, and hydrological data to assess areas with high groundwater potential. By applying AHP, the study assigns relative importance to these factors, creating a groundwater potential map that classifies the region into very high, high, low, and poor potential zones. The results indicate that 7% of the basin has very high potential for groundwater recharge, 33% has high potential, while 56% is categorized as low potential, and 4% falls under poor potential. The accuracy of the results is validated through comparison with existing well data, which aligns with the identified high-potential zones. The research demonstrates that combining GIS, RS, and AHP is an effective approach for mapping groundwater potential, offering valuable insights for sustainable water resource management in areas experiencing water scarcity. This methodology presents a scalable model that can be applied to similar regions facing groundwater challenges.

Comparative Analysis of Multi‐Criteria Decision‐Making Approaches for Identifying Groundwater Recharge Potential Zones in the River Basin of Northern Kerala, India

ABSTRACTGroundwater resources are increasingly strained by misuse and climate change, necessitating the identification of potential recharge zones for sustainable management. The study aimed to simulate potential recharge zones of a tropical river basin using two multi‐criteria decision‐making techniques: the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Multi‐Influencing Factor (MIF) methods. Thematic layers of key variables were integrated using a weighted overlay analysis in GIS environment to model recharge areas within a tropical river basin in Northern Kerala, India. Normalized weights and ranks were calculated to evaluate their influence on groundwater development. Five classes of groundwater recharge potential zones (GWRPZ) with their derived areas were identified for AHP and MIF, respectively: high (30.39% and 28.24%), low (21.55% and 21.60%), very high (19.20% and 18.45%), moderate (16.96% and 20.25%), and very low (11.90% and 11.45%). Validation with overall accuracy and Kappa coefficient confirmed the methods' comparability. The results guide water well site selection and improve managed aquifer recharge (MAR) strategies. Local bodies within the river basin were ranked utilizing the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method to prioritize and implement recharge schemes, aiding sustainability goals in groundwater management.

Analysis and Mapping of the Distribution of Groundwater Recharge Areas Using the Scoring Method (Case Study: Singgahan and Montong District, Tuban).

Abstract Tuban Regency, located in the northern part of East Java, borders the Java Sea to the north and is intersected by several rivers. The presence of numerous rivers and limestone or karst hills in regions like Singgahan and Montong Districts suggests significant potential for these areas to function as groundwater recharge zones. A groundwater recharge area is characterized by the vertical movement of groundwater, driven by the flow of water along the gradient of aquifers. Identifying and preserving these recharge zones in Singgahan and Montong is crucial to maintaining the groundwater supply, ensuring its availability in sufficient quantity and quality to meet the ongoing needs of ecosystems and human consumption. This study utilizes a scoring method to identify potential recharge areas, incorporating parameters such as land cover, soil type, rainfall, and slope inclination. In this method, each parameter is assigned a specific weight: slope inclination (20%), soil type (35%), rainfall (15%), and land cover (30%). The analysis revealed that the land cover in these districts primarily consists of plantations, with 6,840.63 hectares in August and 6,761.88 hectares in October. The slope inclination in Singgahan District is predominantly flat, covering 8,417.68 hectares. Both Singgahan and Montong Districts experience low rainfall, with 57% of the total area, equivalent to 12,670.89 hectares, falling into this category. The most prevalent soil type is Cambisol, which constitutes 33% of the area, or 7,463.46 hectares. Using the scoring method, it was determined that in August, Singgahan and Montong Districts possess high potential for recharge areas, with high-level recharge zones covering 1,314.70 hectares and medium-level recharge zones spanning 18,498.78 hectares. By October, the extent of high-level recharge zones had increased to 3,499.20 hectares, while medium-level recharge zones covered 16,942.45 hectares. These findings underscore the importance of managing these recharge areas to sustain groundwater resources effectively.

Assessment of groundwater potential zones for hard rock area of sabi river basin using an integrated approach of remote sensing, GIS and AHP techniques

The study was conducted to assess groundwater potential zones (GWPZs) for hard rock area of Sabi river basin for the sustainable development. Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) have emerged as crucial methods in retrieval, monitoring and conserving groundwater resources were used along with Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to demarcate the GWPZs. In order to assess GWP in the study area, eight thematic maps: drainage density, geomorphology, geology, rainfall, land use/land cover, lineament density, slope and soil were prepared using RS and conventional data. The AHP was applied to assign the weightages for each thematic map and its sub classes. Then, the thematic layers were overlaid using the weighted overlay analysis means of ArcGIS 10.4 to assess the GWPZ map of Sabi basin. The Sabi basin was categorized into five classes of GWPZ as very good (0.01%), good (24.72%), moderate (56.54%), poor (10.45%) and very poor (8.28%). The accuracy of produced GWPZ map was assessed with well yield data by agreement scheme using ground water prospects map and by using ROC curve analysis through R-studio software which indicates the satisfactory GWPZ map prediction accuracy. This study provides valuable database in planning and development of groundwater recharging and to delineate locations of potential artificial recharge sites in the hard rock regions and semi -arid areas so that appropriate structures could be planned and constructed to manage aquifer recharge for sustainable groundwater management in the future.

Groundwater Response to Snowmelt Infiltration in Seasonal Frozen Soil Areas: Site Monitoring and Numerical Simulation

Spring snowmelt has a significant impact on the hydrological cycle in seasonally frozen soil areas. However, scholars hold differing, and even opposing, views on the role of snowmelt during the thawing period in groundwater recharge. To explore the potential recharge effects of spring snowmelt on groundwater in seasonal frozen soil areas, this study investigated the vadose zone dynamics controlled by soil freeze–thaw processes and snowmelt infiltration in the Northeast of China for 194 days from 31 October 2020 to 12 May 2021. Responses of groundwater level and soil moisture to snowmelt infiltration show that most snowmelt was infiltrated under the site despite the ground being frozen. During the unstable thawing period, surface snow had already melted, and preferential flow in frozen soil enabled the recharge groundwater by snowmelt (rainfall), resulting in a significant rise in groundwater levels within a short time. The calculated and simulated snowmelt (rainfall) infiltration coefficient revealed that during the spring snowmelt period, the recharge capacity of snowmelt or rainfall to groundwater at the site is 3.2 times during the stable thawing period and 4.5 times during the non-freezing period.

Inter-basin groundwater flow in the Ordos Basin: Evidence of environmental isotope and hydrological investigations

The Ordos Basin, located in arid and semi-arid region of China, is famous for its abundant groundwater resources and artesian features. The source of groundwater recharge, whether from local precipitation or external sources, has been debated. This study aims to elucidate the groundwater circulation mechanism in the Ordos Basin through scientific expedition, environmental isotope method, and hydrological drilling exploration, providing valuable insights for other artesian basins. Comprehensive analysis indicates that groundwater in the Ordos Basin is recharged by modern precipitation, primarily from high-elevation areas outside the basin. Deep groundwater from these external sources ascends to the aquifer through basement fault zones. Evidence from hydrogen and oxygen isotopes, hydraulic gradients, and water quantities suggests that the Tibetan Plateau is the most potential recharge source. Based on the distribution of Cenozoic basalt and data from seismic observation wells, we propose that leakage water from the Tibetan Plateau rift valley is transported to the Ordos Basin through fast channels, possibly lava tubes, and then upwelling through basement fault zones. This work provides a new perspective on the mechanism of inter-basin groundwater circulation.

Estimation of potential groundwater recharge in a growing touristic neotropical dry forest area

La Tatacoa Desert, Colombia's second most arid area after La Guajira, is one of the country's main tropical dry forest ecosystems and most attractive natural tourist areas. However, due to its climatic and hydrological conditions, this region presents a worrying panorama on water resources since 90% of the streams crossing La Tatacoa dry up during summer, affecting the water supply for human consumption, agriculture, and livestock. Therefore, groundwater in the area is an invaluable resource that could help meet future demand, and identifying the primary source of recharge becomes an urgent matter. In this paper, we intend to approach the subject only from the analysis of direct recharge for the three main hydrologic conditions in the region: neutral, dry (el Niño), and humid (la Niña), considering the influence of the ENSO. For this purpose, potential recharge was estimated using the SWB (soil water balance) method suggested by the USGS (United States Geological Service). Our results showed that direct recharge for humid conditions is around 380 mm/yr. For neutral and dry conditions, it ranges between 115 mm/yr and 160 mm/yr, corresponding to a recharged precipitation of 10% and 15%, respectively. These values are similar to those reported for semiarid areas, even though rainfall in La Tatacoa ranges between 1000 and 1500 mm/yr. Such low values of direct recharge, compared with the reported use of groundwater in the area, might suggest that there is a complementary source of recharge, probably from the perennial rivers surrounding La Tatacoa (Magdalena or Cabrera), but this is something that is yet to be proven. This study enhances our understanding of groundwater recharge in arid regions, offering new insights for sustainable groundwater management. However, further studies are needed to assess the impact of climate change on direct recharge so that more sustainable water management can be implemented in La Tatacoa, especially concerning supply for the increasing touristic activities.

Woody Encroachment Modifies Subsurface Structure and Hydrological Function

ABSTRACTWoody encroachment—the expansion of woody shrubs into grasslands—is a widely documented phenomenon with global significance for the water cycle. However, its effects on watershed hydrology, including streamflow and groundwater recharge, remain poorly understood. A key challenge is the limited understanding of how changes to root abundance, size and distribution across soil depths influence infiltration and preferential flow. We hypothesised that woody shrubs would increase and deepen coarse‐root abundance and effective soil porosity, thus promoting deeper soil water infiltration and increasing soil water flow velocities. To test this hypothesis, we conducted a study at the Konza Prairie Biological Station in Kansas, where roughleaf dogwood (Cornus drummondii) is the predominant woody shrub encroaching into native tallgrass prairie. We quantified the distribution of coarse and fine roots and leveraged soil moisture time series and electrical resistivity imaging to analyse soil water flow beneath shrubs and grasses. We observed a greater fraction of coarse roots beneath shrubs compared to grasses, which was concurrent with greater saturated hydraulic conductivity and effective porosity. Half‐hourly rainfall and soil moisture data show that the average soil water flow through macropores was 135% greater beneath shrubs than grasses at the deepest B horizon, consistent with greater saturated hydraulic conductivity. Soil‐moisture time series and electrical resistivity imaging also indicated that large rainfall events and greater antecedent wetness promoted more flow in the deeper layers beneath shrubs than beneath grasses. These findings suggest that woody encroachment alters soil hydrologic processes with cascading consequences for ecohydrological processes, including increased vertical connectivity and potential groundwater recharge.

Seasonal changes in subsurface characteristics in the Lower Bengal Basin: Potential impacts on groundwater

The risk of groundwater depletion is most significant if anthropogenic withdrawals are high in regions where the subsurface characteristics do not favor surface water infiltration and natural recharge. However, such regions have not been identified systematically in the Indo-Gangetic basin, one of the most fertile alluvial aquifers in the world. This identification may be enabled by a study of how seasonal changes in subsurface characteristics affect groundwater levels. We conducted a resistivity survey in Nanoor block of the Lower Ganges Basin, where groundwater levels have declined steeply in recent decades, to determine how subsurface characteristics controlling infiltration and groundwater quality may change seasonally. Vertical Electrical Soundings (VES) using the Schlumberger electrode array were conducted over an 8 km² area with an electrode spacing of 180-200 meters during the pre-monsoon (April 2018) and post-monsoon (October 2018) seasons. Seasonal variations in the Dar- Zarrouk parameters: longitudinal conductance, transverse resistance, and the coefficient of anisotropy were evaluated. While the average longitudinal conductance remained unchanged across seasons, it increased in certain locations in post-monsoon, indicating potential risks of contamination from the surface. The transverse resistance significantly increased in the post-monsoon, suggesting reduced groundwater potential. Additionally, in some areas, the coefficient of anisotropy indicated increased compaction of overburden layers in the post-monsoon, suggesting decreased natural recharge potential. Finally, the thickness of the unsaturated zone increased significantly from pre-monsoon to post-monsoon, which may be attributed to groundwater withdrawal for irrigation during the Kharif cropping season. These results indicate that this region, heavily reliant on groundwater for irrigation, is characterized by subsurface properties that allow limited natural recharge potential. This study may provide a framework for managing groundwater resources in developing countries where anthropogenic withdrawals are likely to have a more significant impact on groundwater levels than reduced natural recharge due to changing rainfall characteristics.

Remote sensing to quantify potential aquifer recharge as a complementary tool for groundwater monitoring

ABSTRACT Groundwater resources are vital for water security but face threats from overexploitation, contamination, and climate change. This study focuses on the Guarani (GAS) and Bauru (BAS) aquifer systems’ recharge in western São Paulo, Brazil. We enhanced the scalability of the potential recharge (PR) method and assessed recharge using groundwater storage (GWS) data from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE). Our findings indicate that while the remote sensing-based PR method aligns with the existing literature, it tends to overestimate recharge. Conversely, the GWS method provides more conservative and reliable estimates. Integrating remote sensing-based methods is a crucial tool for improving recharge estimation and supporting groundwater resource management.

Integrated Geospatial and Analytical Hierarchy Process Approach for Assessing Sustainable Management of Groundwater Recharge Potential in Barind Tract

Groundwater depletion in Bangladesh’s Barind tract poses significant challenges for sustainable water management. This study aims to delineate groundwater recharge potential zones in this region using an integrated geospatial and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) approach. The methodology combines remote-sensing data with GIS analysis, considering seven factors influencing groundwater recharge: rainfall, soil type, geology, slope, lineament density, land use/land cover, and drainage density. The AHP method was employed to assess the variability of groundwater recharge potential within the 7586 km2 study area. Thematic maps of relevant factors were processed using ArcGIS software. Results indicate that 9.23% (700.22 km2), 47.68% (3617.13 km2), 37.12% (2816.13 km2), and 5.97% (452.70 km2) of the study area exhibit poor, moderate, good, and very good recharge potential, respectively. The annual recharge volume is estimated at 2554 × 106 m3/year, constituting 22.7% of the total precipitation volume (11,227 × 106 m3/year). Analysis of individual factors revealed that geology has the highest influence (33.57%) on recharge potential, followed by land use/land cover (17.74%), soil type (17.25%), and rainfall (12.25%). The consistency ratio of the pairwise comparison matrix was 0.0904, indicating acceptable reliability of the AHP results. The spatial distribution of recharge zones shows a concentration of poor recharge potential in areas with low rainfall (1200–1400 mm/year) and high slope (6–40%). Conversely, very good recharge potential is associated with high rainfall zones (1800–2200 mm/year) and areas with favorable geology (sedimentary deposits). This study provides a quantitative framework for assessing groundwater recharge potential in the Barind tract. The resulting maps and data offer valuable insights for policymakers and water resource managers to develop targeted groundwater management strategies. These findings have significant implications for sustainable water resource management in the region, particularly in addressing challenges related to agricultural water demand and climate change adaptation.

Determining Potential Groundwater Recharge Zones in the North Gujarat Region of Gujarat State Using Techniques of Geoinformatics and Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis

The rapid increase in population and industrialization has significantly raised the consumption of groundwater resources for domestic, agricultural, and industrial purposes. This study aims to develop groundwater recharge potential zone maps to assist in the construction of artificial recharge structures in the North Gujarat Region of Gujarat, India. An integrated approach of remote sensing (RS), geographical information system (GIS), and multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) were used to achieve this goal. Influencing factors of groundwater availability included geology, soil, lineament density, slope, rainfall, land use/land cover, geomorphology, and drainage density, were analyzed to delineate potential groundwater recharge zones. each influencing parameter was determined by using Saaty's Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method, and sub-parameters were ranked according to the AHP scale. A weighted overlay analysis tool in ArcGIS software was employed to map the groundwater recharge potential zones in the North Gujarat region. The classified results of the recharge potential area in the study area consist of excellent (9.93%), good (27.90%), moderate (17.58%), poor (3.92%), and very poor (0.92%) These findings provide valuable insights for effectively planning and managing groundwater resource development in the region.

Assessment of Potential Aquifer Recharge Zones in the Locumba Basin, Arid Region of the Atacama Desert Using Integration of Two MCDM Methods: Fuzzy AHP and TOPSIS

Natural aquifers used for human consumption are among the most important resources in the world. The Locumba basin faces significant challenges due to its limited water availability for the local population. In this way, the search for possible aquifer recharge zones is crucial work for urban development in areas that have water scarcity. To evaluate this problem, this research proposes the use of the hybrid Fuzzy AHP methodology in conjunction with the TOPSIS algorithm to obtain a potential aquifer recharge map. Ten factors that influence productivity and capacity in an aquifer were implemented, which were subjected to Fuzzy AHP to obtain their weighting. Using the TOPSIS algorithm, the delineation of the most favorable areas with high recharge potential was established. The result shows that the most influential factors for recharge are precipitation, permeability, and slopes, which obtained the highest weights of 0.22, 0.19, and 0.17, respectively. In parallel, the TOPSIS result highlights the potential recharge zones distributed in the Locumba basin, which were classified into five categories: very high (13%), high (28%), moderate (15%), low (28%), and very low (16%). The adapted methodology in this research seeks to be the first step toward effective water resource management in the study area.

Identifying potential artificial recharge zone in an arid craton

Identifying sustainable artificial recharge zones in arid cratons is challenging due to complex geology and limited natural recharge conditions, making accurate site selection and management difficult. This study integrates Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES), the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), and Boolean analysis to identify sustainable artificial recharge zones in the arid Bundelkhand craton of India. Aquifer thickness and fractures emerged as critical determinants of groundwater recharge conditions, revealing varying degrees of suitability for recharge across the study area. Approximately 2.31% (13.36 km2) of the area along streams exhibited "very high" suitability, while 8.09% (45.82 km2) had "high" suitability. “Moderate" suitability covered 17.86% (101.66 km2), "low" suitability accounted for 38.85% (218.39 km2), and "very low" suitability represented 17.35% (98.75 km2) of the area. Recharge potential was highest in the northeast and central parts, with the middle of the watershed exhibiting the lowest potential. The study demonstrated that this integrated approach significantly improved precision from 71.40% to 85.70% and enhanced the F1 score from 0.833 to 0.923, surpassing the performance of the AHP method alone. The findings highlighted the importance of strategic selection and targeting of specific locations for artificial recharge, as only ∼18% of the study area was suitable for such efforts, despite ∼43% showing potential for groundwater. AHP with VES proves more precise and reliable than Fuzzy-AHP with VES, with AHP's conservative approach classifying 55.70% of the area as very low to low suitability compared to Fuzzy-AHP's 41.92%, ensuring only the most suitable sites are selected. VES offers cost-effectiveness, noninvasiveness, and rapid generation of a 1D subsurface model, balancing its lower detail compared to Electrical Resistivity Tomography. When combined with the AHP, VES enhances adaptability to changing conditions, emphasizing ecological preservation and climate change resilience. This approach effectively addresses water challenges in arid regions, contributing to sustainable water resource management.

Evaluating groundwater potential in water-deficit laterite zones of Eastern India using RS and GIS techniques, combining an analytical hierarchical process for sustainable water resources management

Sustainable groundwater management in water-deficit, laterite-dominated regions need urgent planning, which involve accurate identification of groundwater potential zones (GWPZs). While unsustainable water extraction has exacerbated groundwater availability in laterite zones, laterite is globally known for its limited groundwater potential but has received relatively little research attention. Therefore, the present study aims to examine the role of laterite formation on groundwater potentiality and its relationship with the stage of groundwater development in Paschim Medinipur district of West Bengal in eastern India. This study integrated cost-effective and efficient time-saving tools like remote sensing, and GIS and to produce thematic map layers for overlay analysis and analytical hierarchy process (AHP) to delineate the GWPZs precisely using n = 10 parameters, while a consistency check was performed prior to the integration of these parameters to ensure low subjectivity in the GWPZ. The three identified GWPZ classes cover 30% of ‘good’, 44% of ‘moderate’ and 26% of ‘poor’ zones. The yield data and water level fluctuation analysis revealed that 70% and 60% match the delineated GWPZs. The cross-validation with the receiver operating characteristic curve also demonstrated good (75.1%) prediction accuracy. We found that hydrogeological factors like laterite formations witness around 80% of moderate to poor GWPZ, while poor GWPZ covers half of the laterite belt. However, flood plains and valley fill deposits in the lateritic parts demonstrate moderate to good GWPZ, suggesting laterite formation at variable depths that control groundwater recharge potential. The laterite regions with lower groundwater recharge potential have experienced a 17% increase in water extraction compared to non-laterite areas. Whereas four blocks within the district are partly overlapped with laterite formations and poor GWPZ, which encounter high stages of groundwater development (70–90%), leading to semi-critical to critical conditions. It is attributed to anthropogenic perturbations and hydrogeological conditions, which need urgent planning to ensure sustainable groundwater usage.