Evaluation of groundwater resources in Lower Cretaceous aquifer system in Sinai

The Sinai Peninsula has an area of 61000 km(2) and its population is about 325000. It is located in an arid area. Extensive development in the socio-economic, industrial and agricultural is in process. Although Lower Cretaceous aquifer is the most prospective aquifer in Sinai, it is not yet precisely evaluated. Spatially distributed areas of good groundwater quality suitable for various types of development are not identified. The current article presents a comprehensive assessment of the hydrogeological information and hydrological data. Accordingly, three aquifer zones have been identified. Groundwater reserve was estimated and groundwater balance has been developed. Development potential was evaluated. Development criteria were proposed and applied. Suitable areas for domestic and irrigation purposes were delineated. Results indicated that the aquifer contains 308 billion m(3) of groundwater of which a considerable volume is of good quality. By lowering the present water level some 200 meters, the aquifer yielded 3643 million m(3), which is sufficient to supply the present rate of withdrawal for 445 years. The results are considered to be useful for preparing groundwater master plans in Sinai. Under the proper water management, Sinai could be self sufficient in satisfying its domestic water demand.