Hydro-Geological Inferences through Holistic Analysis for Hanp-Sheonath-Kaura Groundwater Basins in Block Bemetara, District Bemetara [CG]

Ground water scarcity for the area of study has SEMI-CRITICAL ground water development stage as -78.06 %, according to Central Ground Water Board [CGWB] in December 2015. The prevailing causes for the occurrence of ground water scarcity have been highlighted. The area of study is the part of Mahanadi river catchment possessing three closely connected ground water basins namely: Hanp, Sheonath & Kaura with average annual rainfall of about 1500 mm. The holistic analysis has been carried out on the basis of relevant literature review and scrutiny of latest dynamic ground water resource publication of CGWB with emphasis on terrain set up, geological and hydro-geological conditions. The quantitative scenario of ground water has been ascertained through aquifer disposition with geometry, recharge-discharge characteristics and hydrological gradient in relation to prevailing three surface streams in northern, eastern and southern portion of the area of study respectively. Two main types of aquifer- unconfined and confined have been revealed up-to depth of 200 m through Vertical Electrode Sounding configuration by Resistivity survey- as geophysical prospecting. The annual recharge-discharge and extractable ground water for different uses with future trend have been documented. The qualitative scenario of ground water has been explained through reasoning pertaining to genetic, anthropogenic manner. The degree of vulnerability of ground water has been obtained through seventeen standard water quality parameters corresponding to Hand pump, Dug well and Bore holes. The entire ground water basins have been evaluated into urban, sub-urban and rural activity along with agricultural characteristics of clay mineralogy. The ground water management strategies for the area of study has been suggested to bring back safe stage of ground water development below 65 % with emphasis on conservation of ground water as well as impletion of intensive rainwater harvesting structures, change i