Recharge Structures Research Articles

Identification of suitable sites for different artificial groundwater recharge structures for sustainable water resources management in Ken River Basin

Identification of suitable sites for different artificial groundwater recharge structures for sustainable water resources management in Ken River Basin

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.

Identification of groundwater recharge potential zone using geospatial approaches and multi criteria decision models in Udham Singh Nagar district, Uttarakhand, India

Groundwater is a valuable natural resource, which is extensively used in agricultural, industrial as well as daily activities of human beings. It is an essential source of freshwater need of half of the world’s population. In this study Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), along with Multi criteria decision models were used. The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was used to determine the weights of various themes and their classes in the study to identify the groundwater recharge zones in Udham Singh Nagar district. Nine thematic maps/layers were created using GIS methods and employed for the demarcation of groundwater potential zone (GWPZ). It was concluded that around 82% of the area is very suitable (very good and good) for ground water recharge, which suggests that there is a significant amount of potential for artificial recharge systems to be implemented. This can help to augment the natural recharge process, improve water quality, and reduce the strain on existing water sources. Whereas only 18% (very poor and poor) of the area has low potential to groundwater recharge is still important to consider, as it may require different approaches or strategies to improve its suitability. Validation shows that, wells data; (n=38) have water level <5 mbgl (83%), whereas only (n=8) have water less >5 mbgl (17%). This area could be prioritized for more extensive data collection or monitoring to better understand its hydrogeological characteristics. The findings will indeed be helpful for decision-makers in selecting suitable locations for groundwater recharge structures.

Suitable sites for groundwater recharge structures in the north region of Gujarat state using analytical hierarchical process and weighted overlay analysis: A comparative approach

Suitable sites for groundwater recharge structures in the north region of Gujarat state using analytical hierarchical process and weighted overlay analysis: A comparative approach

Artificial recharge initiatives in India: Challenges and future scope

Artificial recharge of aquifers is regarded as a fundamental supply-side strategy in India to address the prevalent issue of groundwater over-exploitation. Rainwater harvesting and artificial recharge are often implemented as cohesive sets of interventions because of the significant collateral benefits of rainwater harvesting. Central and state governments have implemented various schemes that incorporate rainwater harvesting and artificial recharge. Several studies are underway to investigate the optimal selection of construction sites, structural types, and designs based on local hydrogeology, groundwater flow patterns, terrain conditions, and water demand. These investigations aimed to assess the impact of these factors on resource replenishment and water quality enhancement. Studies have been conducted to determine the extent to which such initiatives yield socio-economic advantages. The discourse has encompassed crucial concerns, such as the accessibility of source water for recharge, conflicts between upstream and downstream stakeholders, and the increasing recognition of various demand-side measures for the sustainable administration of groundwater reservoirs. The paper highlights that there has been a rise in the number of studies regarding artificial recharge post-2020. Overall, this paper showcases the challenges for the implementation of artificial recharge structures with special focus on aspects such as site suitability, water quality concerns, operational problems and governance. The study also sheds light on the future scope of artificial recharge for the sustainable use of groundwater resources. More studies should be performed considering large-scale implications of artificial recharge structures considering resilience towards climate change and water quality and quality concerns.

Addressing water security challenges through groundwater recharge for revival of Kanari River using AHP and geospatial techniques

Artificial recharge of groundwater has been recognized as a promising option for sustaining groundwater supplies and ensure water security for the ever rising population. With the aid of geospatial and multi-criteria decision analysis methodologies, the current study's scope aids in evaluating groundwater potential zones and locating suitable zones and sites for groundwater recharge for the revival of the Kanari River. A pragmatic methodology was suggested in this study for implementing water harvesting structures for river revival and estimation of water demand, pumping, and recharge. The geometric mean and the normalized weight for individual features were specified using the AHP in a GIS environment. All the different features/datasets were overlaid, and possible groundwater zones were revealed using AHP. Integrated maps were used to identify the groundwater recharge zone and locations for establishing artificial recharge structures within the Kanari River system. Ultimately, the domestic water demand, agriculture water use, pumping, and livestock water demand were estimated for water budgeting, and based on this data, the water availability was calculated. Based on the study results, the water demand of the Kanari River watershed was estimated to be 732 MCM. Taking into consideration the supply and demand scenarios, the pumping overdraft of the Kanari River watershed was found to be 423 MCM, and the proposed additional recharge through the planned conservation structures was estimated to be 859 MCM. So, even if pumping overdraft is considered, this additional groundwater recharge can fulfill the local demand, help maintain the river flow, and ensure water availability and security in the region.

Groundwater recharge potentiality mapping for opportune augmentation following two MCDMs for a Western Himalayan watershed

Accounting potential zones for recharging groundwater is a prerequisite before the implementation of the springshed conservation program. Many studies have suggested that the resurgence of the springs in the Himalayan region is waning due to anthropogenic and Climate Change impacts. Typical physical methods of recharge zone explorations are manpower & fiscal-intensive and find limited applicability in areas with steep slopes and undulating topography. The deliberated study is an attempt towards the identification of potential recharge zones using topographical and meteorological indices via two MCDM methods, namely, AHP and Fuzzy AHP for the Saryu watershed of Kumaun Himalaya, Uttarakhand. Twelve thematic layers following the assignment of suitable weights were overlayed for the development of the groundwater recharge potentiality map. The findings indicated that following AHP 6%, 86.89%, 7.10% & 0.01% of the study area demonstrates low, moderate, high, and very high potentiality for groundwater recharge, while, FAHP suggests these indices to be 19.23%, 76.77%, 3.55%, & 0.45%, respectively. Further, FAHP demonstrates the redundancy of a few input layers for the adopted scale of the input data. The study also furnishes a brief description of opportune recharge structures based on the groundwater recharge potentialities.

Optimising groundwater recharge to counteract seawater intrusion through an inverse modelling approach and identifying efficient recharge structure locations

In semi-arid coastal urban regions, groundwater faces challenges from seawater intrusion due to reduced recharge and increased extraction. This study employs advanced numerical modeling to comprehensively assess seawater intrusion along the South Chennai coast from 2018 to 2022. The inverse modelling approach utilizes observed data, such as groundwater heads or concentrations, to estimate aquifer properties, like hydraulic conductivity, by minimizing the disparity between model predictions and actual measurements to identify the best-fit parameter values. This inverse method forecasts the necessary recharge rate to address seawater intrusion by increasing groundwater head and decreasing chloride concentrations. The estimation of recharge incorporates variables such as rainfall, soil infiltration capacity, land use, and the vital groundwater draft calculated based on per capita consumption and population. The study uses FEFLOW software to develop a robust conceptual model, simulating groundwater flow and chloride transport. The inverse modeling approach resulted in critical recharge adjustments, enhancing rates by 40%–60% in specific regions. The predictive scenarios, integrating proposed recharge structures, show promising results, notably with a 50% reduction in chloride concentration during the post-monsoon season compared to the pre-monsoon period in wells 8 and 3. A notable decrease in chloride concentration of over 90% was observed during May 2025 in well no: 15 due to its proximity to the Adayar River. These fluctuations are influenced by seasonal variations resulting from climatic changes in South India, with intense rainfall accompanying northeast monsoon winds playing a significant role. Increased recharge rates and strategically placed structures along the Buckingham Canal provide significant relief in the most impacted northern coastal area, acting as effective barriers. These interventions successfully reduce chloride concentration, providing a sustainable and effective solution to mitigate the persistent challenge of seawater intrusion.

Towards Sustainable Water Solutions: Investigating Groundwater Possibility in Dindori District of Madhya Pradesh, India

Groundwater is a crucial resource, as approximately 45% of irrigation and around 80% of domestic water needs in India are fulfilled by groundwater reservoirs. Therefore, it is essential to determine where the probability of groundwater availability is high and where it is low. In areas with low probability, there is a need for the rapid development of recharge structures. GIS and remote sensing technology is a crucial tool for obtaining information about availability of ground water potential as well as finding suitable site for recharge structures. The investigation will involve geological surveys to understand the hydrogeological characteristics of the region, including aquifer properties, recharge mechanisms, and groundwater quality. Additionally, environmental impact assessments will be conducted to evaluate the sustainability of groundwater extraction and its potential implications on the surrounding ecosystems. Furthermore, socio-economic analyses will explore the existing water usage patterns, community needs, and stakeholders' perspectives to develop inclusive and equitable groundwater management plans.&#x0D; "This study focuses on the Dindori district in Madhya Pradesh, India. There are different factors affecting groundwater recharge, including topography, slope, land use and land cover, drainage density, geology, soil distribution, rainfall, lineament, etc. Satellite images provide information about land use/land cover, geomorphology, and DEM delineate slope, drainage, and lineament. They are classified into different classes and assigned weights. ArcGIS software was used for data integration and weighted overlay analysis to create a groundwater potential map for the Dindori district. The groundwater potential map is categorized into five classes: 'Excellent' (0.01%), 'Good' (9.78%), 'Moderate' (70.04%), 'Poor' (19.97%), and 'Very Poor/Nil' (0.17%)."

Ensuring water security by reviving selected springs in Kangra region, Himachal Himalaya, India

ABSTRACT In the Himalaya, availability of fresh water is a need of mankind, but due to numerous unsustainable developments, hill peoplesare witnessing scarcity of potable water. Hence, there is an imperative need for continuous monitoring of different water sources of Himalaya along with sustainable groundwater management practices in the highlands. The present study is based on extensive field visits investigating natural and other anthropogenic influences on mountain springs, locally known as “boweris”. In the undertaken study, eleven boweris were identified in the Salol region of Kangra, out of which two were exclusively selected as representative boweris, for their detailed studies and revival during the year 2021–2022. The physio-chemical characteristics (pH, TDS, and Electrical Conductivity) of the collected water samples from the boweris and hand pumps were found to be within the acceptable limits as prescribed by Bureau of Indian standards. The correlation between the pairs of TDS-EC depicted a strong positive relationship in both post-monsoon and pre-monsoon seasons and was found to be 0.94 and 0.99, respectively. Results of the t-test show a statistically significant difference in the mean concentrations of TDS (p = 0.02) and EC (p = 0.01) compared to pH (p = 0.39) with no significant difference at 5% significance level during both the seasons in the studied area. It was evident from the field investigations that the recharge structures constructed are facilitating the local boweris in maintaining the water level during the dry seasons. In the Bhatlahru region, the water level in the boweris rose from 127 to 159 cm, whereas in the Salol region, a rise from 119 to 142 cm was observed. The obtained results support the effectiveness and suitability of the proposed structures for the sustainable water resource management in the lower Himalaya. However, regular and long-term hydrological monitoring of the existing groundwater sources of the Himalaya is required for a better understanding of groundwater dynamics.

Monitoring the Impacts of Artificial Recharge Structures on Water Table at Ambedkar Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, India

To study the groundwater recharge through rainfall and artificial recharge structures in selected dry well in different locations of UP was experimented. The data was recorded (1998-2017) to execute the artificial recharge structure at the appropriate locations with best geological condition to enhance the recharge rate at least cost for control of declining groundwater level. Study reveals that the stochastic auto regressive lime series model is an effective tool for management of ground water resource at pre and post monsoon. The variation of pre and post monsoon ground water level is maximum as the physical soil characteristics including hydraulic conductivity may enhance the recharge rate at least cost.

Artificial Recharge Structures for Heggada Devana Kote Taluk in Southern tip of Karnataka, India using Geospatial Tools

Artificial Recharge Structures for Heggada Devana Kote Taluk in Southern tip of Karnataka, India using Geospatial Tools

A Fusion of Multi-Criteria Decision-Making for Select Recharge Structure

Groundwater recharge is essential in establishing reliable groundwater supplies in a region. Groundwater is a vital natural water resource, but its quantity and quality may vary significantly from one area to another. Growing urbanization and population increase have put a significant demand on groundwater supplies. Using Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM), several studies have identified good areas for recharging groundwater supplies. To help choose between several types of artificial recharge (AR) structures, we have developed an MCDM approach for this research. We used an MCDM fusion methodology to combine various AR criteria with the alternatives. This study collected eight criteria and eight alternatives. We used the average method to compute the weights of the criteria. Then, we used the COCOSO method as an MCDM fusion method to rank the alternatives. The results show that hydrological conditions are the best criteria, and stakeholder engagement is the lowest weight. The sensitivity analysis is performed to show the stability of the results in this study.

Assessment of groundwater potential zones in data-scarce regions using GIS-based multicriteria decision making approach

Groundwater is an essential natural resource that sustains numerous ecological systems and human lifestyles. The Jhargram district is facing persistent groundwater development issues, requiring comprehensive monitoring and planning, as most farmers heavily rely on groundwater for crop production. The groundwater potential zone of the Jhargram district was classified into five classes, viz., very high (5.82%), high (50.81%), moderate (30.33%), low (13.01%), and very low (0.03%), zones, respectively. The results were assessed for validity using ROC curves, which demonstrated an accuracy rate of 80.4%. The calculation of the AUC was performed in order to assess the overall accuracy of the predicted GWPZ. The GWPZ map is crucial for implementing artificial recharge structures like percolation ponds, bunds and trenching in semi-arid regions. It aids in developing sustainable groundwater management policies, mitigating drought, climate change, and water scarcity, and aiding farmers, regional planners, policy-makers, climate change experts, and local governments.

Assessing Suitable Groundwater Recharge Locations and Structures Using GIS Technique in a Semi-Arid Region

Abstract: Groundwater management is the continuous research problem in semi-arid regions of India especially in Telangana State. The observed phenomenon can be ascribed to a combination of climatic factors, such as erratic rainfall and soaring temperatures, along with human factors like large-scale cultivation of paddy crops using traditional methods and the extensive drilling of numerous bore wells. Few parts of Nalgonda revenue division in Telangana State are experiencing such conditions which pulled for the augmentation of groundwater resource by suggesting suitable artificial groundwater recharge structures by adopting geographical information system technique and Central Ground Water Board guidelines. Nala bunds, check dams and water absorption trenches are the appropriate recharge structures for the study area that were identified using drainage network, lineaments, slope and land use land cover. In conclusion, this study has proven the reliability of GIS technique when followed with proper guidelines is effective in finding the suitable groundwater recharge structures.

A possibility-based multi-criteria decision-making approach for artificial recharge structure selection using pentagonal fuzzy numbers

Groundwater recharge is crucial in developing groundwater sources in an area for regional growth. One of the essential natural water resources is groundwater, which differs geographically in quality and amount. Groundwater resources are under great strain due to growing urbanization and population growth. Numerous studies have identified groundwater recharge regions using a geographic information system and Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM). In this study, we have proposed an Multi-Criteria Decision-Making technique for selecting artificial recharge structures in basaltic terrain. The proposed Multi-Criteria Decision-Making technique is built with possibility theory under a pentagonal fuzzy environment. Additionally, we have developed a possibilistic middle of asymmetric linear pentagonal fuzzy (LPF) number. Through the Multi-Criteria Decision-Making technique, we have selected the best artificial recharge structures from the available ones. To show our Multi-Criteria Decision-Making methods feasibility, we have considered one numerical example under a pentagonal fuzzy environment.

Appraisal of Water Resources Development Action Plan for Groundwater Recharge in Raghunathapalli Watershed, Jangaon District, Telangana State, India

Water is elixir of life which needs regular assessment for maintaining ecological balance. Micro watershed wise (a few thousand hectares of extent) water resource action plan is need of the hour especially for a hard rock terrain like Raghunathapalli watershed of Jangaon District. Geologically, the area is underlain by Quartzite and Pelitic Schist of Older Metamorphics and Leuco Granite / Grey Alkali FelpsarGranite Terrain (Peninsular Gneissic Complex) belonging to Archeans. The Archeans are intruded at several places by several Pegmatite Veins and Basic Dolerite Dykes. The average annual rainfall of the study area for the past 19 years is 946 mm and that of monsoonal rainfall is 746 mm. In order to do artificial ground water recharge, the study and analysis of parameters that control the ground water recharge is very important for effective ground water recharge. The spatio-temporal variations in rainfall, regional/local distribution in geological formations and geomorphic composition of various units have led to uneven occurrence and distribution of water resources. Different thematic layers like Geology, Geomorphology, Stream Network, Micro Watersheds, Digital Elevation Model, Contours (2m), Base Layers, Soil and Ground Water Potential maps are prepared using Geospatial technologies like Remote Sensing &amp; GIS. Existing Recharge Structures are marked using 1:25,000 scale Survey of India Toposheets and new locations are updated with high resolution satellite imagery. Micro watershed wise Water Balance studies are carried out and Water Resources Development Action Plan is prepared using Ridge to Valley concept with new artificial recharge structures like Check Dams (22), Percolation Tanks (10), Contour Trenches (68Kms), Subsurface Dyke (2), Farm Pond (268), Recharge Pit (179), Recharge Shaft (16), Desilting Tank (24 nos) etc at suitable terrain conditions. Newly proposed locations for constructions of Rainwater harvesting structures in the gap areas will improve the ground water regime and improves the sustainability of wells for agriculture in the drought prone area of Raghunathapalli watershed. Thus Geospatial technologies are cost effective tools for management and conservation of water resources.

Groundwater Flow Modeling of A Microwatershed using Visual Modflow Flex

The present study attempts to make a simulation of groundwater flow modeling in Chikkodi micro-watershed Belagavi (District), Karnataka. A two-layer conceptualization and the three-dimensional groundwater flow model are primarily underlain by weathered basalt and fractured basalt. The first layer weathered zone is 30m from the ground surface and the second layer fractured zone is 80m below the ground surface spread over 20 rows and 20 columns. The cell height is 674m and the cell width is 440m. The work described here built a groundwater flow model in the micro-watershed using Visual MODFLOW Flex. The steady-state groundwater flow model was then numerically projected in April 2020 using seventeen observation wells using the present stress levels. The model aims to quantify input and output stresses and pinpoint the basin's overstressed regions. The water budget analysis estimates that evapotranspiration loss makes up 56.54% of the basin's total groundwater recharge while overall groundwater leaks from river systems are 28.72%. The findings indicated that the southern section of the basin is undergoing severe aquifer stress as a result of river overflow and evapotranspiration. To improve groundwater levels, it is suggested that artificial recharge structures should be developed in and near Chikkodi village at appropriate sites. The trial-and-error approach was used to assess the sensitivity of the calibrated model, and it was discovered that the model is extremely sensitive to changes in hydraulic conductivity and recharge levels. Model performance is excellent, with R2, RMSE, and NRMSE values of 0.97, 5.34, and 13.23% of the assessing criteria.

Hypsometric Analysis of WRC-1 Watershed, Chargarh River Basin, Central India: A Remote Sensing and GIS Approach

Hypsometric analysis is a valuable tool for determining the tectonic evolution of a river basin and the erosion susceptibility. It is also important for integrated watershed management, which include selecting suitable locations for groundwater recharge structures and for conservation of soil and water. This type of study can analyze the relationship between horizontal cross sectional area and the altitude of the watershed. It evaluates the hypsometric curve and hypsometric integral, as generated for the WRC-1 watershed, Chargarh river basin through remote sensing and GIS technique. In the present case, hypsometric analysis was carried out using Survey of India topographic maps, Arc map-10.2 software and SRTM-DEM. The hypsometric integral is calculated using mean elevation minus minimum elevation, divided by relief. The hypsometric curve, with a value of 0.69 for the hypsometric integral clearly indicates an inequilibrium stage (youthful stage) of geomorphic development, which is highly susceptible to erosion. These interpretations can further utilize appropriate measures of soil and water conservation for long-term development within the WRC-1 watershed.

Planning, Design and Site Suitability for Artificial Recharge Structure using GIS at Sarayu River Uttar Pradesh

Abstract: Due to its widespread occurrence, ease of availability, and dependability, ground water has recently become a significant source of water in India for the household, industrial, and agricultural sectors. Due to the lack of recharging options, this trait had led to its uncontrolled abuse in some regions of the nation. This has caused significant ground water table loss in some locations, raising questions about long-term sustainability. Utilizing GIS is necessary for the development of the scarce ground water resources.