Use of a new method for determining the vulnerability and risk of pollution of major groundwater reservoirs in the region of Annaba–Bouteldja (NE Algeria)

Scientists are deeply concerned by the state of vulnerability of groundwater reservoirs. It is a complex task because of the difficulties in determining the degree of pollution of the groundwater. Many methods have been adopted like (DRASTIC, GOD, SI, SINTACS…). Another method (Kherici et al. in Geogr Tech 1–14, 2010) is added to identify the vulnerability of groundwater reservoirs and control the evolution of pollutants. The present article targets the determination of the vulnerability and risks of pollution of groundwater reservoirs of a climatic Mediterranean region (Annaba–Bouteldja region). The device used is based on the combination of two criteria: natural factors (thickness of the unsaturated zone, geological facies and degree of self-purification) and the causes of vulnerability and the pollution risks entropic factors (caused by man). The application of Kherici’s method has revealed a distinction between the different degrees of pollution and has allowed a neat classification of the different reservoirs in the study. The results lead to a vulnerability map and the risks of pollution of Annaba–Bouteldja different aquifers. It has also led to the installation of protection areas; sustained by an efficient general evacuation plan of the sewerage net and the construction of treatment station of the sewage effluents in the urbanized areas.