Study of GIS-based groundwater potential zones for agricultural sustainability: an arid region

Abstract

The cluster-wise area of shallow and deep aquifer zones is used to estimate the potential of groundwater. The potential of the shallow aquifer zone is estimated at 4.61 MCM (million cubic meters) and for the deep aquifer zone at 17,509.03 MCM, while the total groundwater potential for both aquifer zones is estimated at 17,513.64 MCM. The Geographical Information System (GIS) was employed efficiently to estimate the subsurface volume of the lithological rock layers using cost-effective and time-saving techniques, while the Rockwork software integrated with GIS was successfully used to visualize the subsurface lithology and stratigraphy of the aquifer zones. The estimated potential of groundwater can be uncovered by using the alternative solar pumping system to improve the agricultural system in the study area, thereby reducing the migration rate, reducing poverty, and improving the socio-economic conditions of livelihood. In the future, too, it will be essential to design water quality studies to ensure the proper use of groundwater.