Spatial assessment of groundwater vulnerability and sensitivity to pollution in an arid region

Bouarfa’s Tamellalt groundwater has a strategic role in the socio-economic development of the region. Groundwater is the primary water source of that region. This paper provides comprehensive pieces of information about its vulnerability to pollution. Statistical sensitivity analysis highlighted two principal parameters among the seven DRASTIC model parameters: “Aquifer Media” and “Impact of Vadose zone.” The particular distribution of these parameters corresponds to the distribution of the vulnerability index. Three types of spatial vulnerability distribution were identified: high, medium, and low. Water decision-makers, water users, environmentalists, and authorities can rely on these results to prevent Tamellalt groundwater pollution. © 2021, Saudi Society for Geosciences.