GROUNDWATER MANAGEMENT USING THE DRASTIC MODEL FOR THE BUNDELKHAND REGION OF UTTAR PRADESH

Abstract

The Bundelkhand region of Uttar Pradesh faces critical challenges related to groundwater availability and contamination. This study investigates the hydrogeological factors influencing aquifer vulnerability, focusing on parameters namely aquifer media, soil media, hydraulic conductivity, slope, vadose zone, depth to the water table, and recharge. Using methodologies, like DRASTIC, groundwater recharge-prone zonation, and morphometric analysis, vulnerable areas will be identified for the period 1994-2022. The obtained zonation maps are validated through trace element concentration analysis. Additionally, the study employs the weighted overlay index method to identify groundwater recharge-prone regions. Finally, management measures are proposed based on the morphometric analysis of the sub-watersheds and identifying the suitable sites for water structures. The proposed management strategies attempt to improve water resource sustainability by using watershed morphometric analysis and determining the most suitable places to construct water infrastructure. By utilizing these techniques, the suggested management strategies seek to enhance water resource sustainability in susceptible regions identified by groundwater recharge-prone zonation and morphometric analyses.