An Integrated Geohydrology and Geomorphology Based Subsurface Solid Modelling for Site Suitability of Artificial Groundwater Recharge: Bhalki Micro-watershed, Karnataka

Abstract The groundwater resources of basaltic terrains in peninsular India are decreasing rapidly, due to indiscriminate extraction without considering the recharge capabilities of an aquifer. The main focus of the present study is to develop a good perceptive of the groundwater recharge capabilities in basaltic terrains for long term groundwater sustainability. In the present study 3D aquifer solid model of the sub-surface was integrated with surface variables like geomorphology, lineament density, drainage density, slope, land use along with lithology and soil, derived from earth observation (EO) data. This gives a robust platform to find the complex geology of the study area for facilitating artificial groundwater recharge. The methodology adopted provides an opportunity to integrate all the groundwater-related data for a better understanding of the groundwater and surface water interplay in terms of recharge phenomena. The research signified three categories of recharge zones ‘highly-suitable’; ‘moderately- suitable’; and ‘unsuitable’. The recharge zones are found to be in accord with the observed pre and post-monsoon groundwater table signifying the validity of the model. This study would be helpful to delineate groundwater recharge plan in similar geological provinces for ensuring the balance of groundwater resources.