Hydrogeomorphological mapping using geospatial techniques for assessing the groundwater potential of Rambiara river basin, western Himalayas

Integration of geospatial techniques (remote sensing and geographical information system) for the identification of groundwater potential has become an important tool in evaluating, monitoring and conserving groundwater resources. Effective utilization of groundwater resources has become important due to changing climatic scenario. Hence, estimating the zones of potential groundwater recharge is extremely important for the protection and management of water quality of groundwater systems. In this study, Rambiara river basin, southern-eastern part of Kashmir valley, was examined to assess its groundwater resource potential. Geospatial techniques were used to assimilate five causative factors: lithology/geology, land use and land cover, lineaments, drainage, and slope. The factor weight contributing to the groundwater recharge was acquired using satellite image data, lithological/geological maps, and a land use/land cover database followed by field validations. Based on the results obtained, it was observed that the premier recharge potential zones are located down the slope of the river basin due to the dominance of alluvium and agricultural land. Hard rock lithology located towards upstream areas of the basin allows less water to infiltrate.