Groundwater Potential Zone Mapping in Azad Kashmir: A Case Study

Strategic Insights -

Researchers from Jilin University have developed a comprehensive method for delineating groundwater potential zones in the Bagh region of Azad Kashmir, Pakistan. Using a multidisciplinary approach that combines geomatics, hydrogeophysics, and field survey data, the team created a detailed map of groundwater potential zones. The study found that 33% of the area is suitable for groundwater extraction, while 46% has intermediate conditions, and 21% is characterized by limited groundwater availability. The researchers validated their findings using data from existing water wells and springs and geophysical data points.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study focused on the Bagh region of Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, which faces unique challenges from rapid urbanization and climate variability.
  • The researchers used a multidisciplinary approach that combines geomatics, hydrogeophysics, and field survey data to delineate groundwater potential zones.
  • The study identified three zones: High (33%), Moderate (46%), and Low (21%) groundwater potential zones.
  • The researchers found that 33% of the area is suitable for groundwater extraction, while 46% has intermediate conditions, and 21% is characterized by limited groundwater availability.
  • The study results demonstrated moderate to good agreement with the evidence obtained, as indicated by an area under curve value of 79.6%.
  • The researchers used the analytical hierarchy process evaluation method to develop the groundwater potential zonation map.
  • The study highlighted the importance of sustainable groundwater management in the Bagh region.

Statistics:

  • 33% of the Bagh region is suitable for groundwater extraction.
  • 46% of the area has intermediate conditions for groundwater potential.
  • 21% of the region is characterized by limited groundwater availability.
  • The area under curve value for validation results is 79.6%.
  • The researchers used 30 existing water wells and 50 geophysical data points to validate their findings.
  • The study involves researchers from Jilin University, including Wenjing Zhang, Usman Basharat, Arshad Abbasi, Sehrish Mahroof, Abrar Niaz, and Shoukat Husain Khan.

Sources:

  • Geoinformatics and Hydrogeophysical-based Delineation of Groundwater Potential Zone Through Surface and Subsurface Indicators. Applied Water Science, 2025;15(8).
  • Springer Heidelberg, Tiergartenstrasse 17, D-69121 Heidelberg, Germany (Applied Water Science - www.springerlink.com/content/2190-5487/).
  • Wenjing Zhang, Jilin University, Key Laboratory of Groundwater Resources and Environment, Ministry of Education, Changchun 130021, People's Republic of China.