Numerical Modeling as an Effective tool for Artificial Groundwater Recharge Assessment

Abstract

Abstract Quantification of distribution of groundwater recharge in spatial and temporal scale is a precondition for operating groundwater system effectively. Groundwater in aquifers depends on rainfall-recharge and percolation from water storages. Groundwater extraction at rates higher than its recharge rates, results in receding water tables at alarming rate. The study is to assess groundwater recharge capability of various structures in the Cuddalore aquifer, Tamil Nadu, India. The groundwater flow model was developed using MODFLOW, a finite-difference model with the support of GMS graphical user interface. Calibration, validation and the χ 2 test proved that there is no significant difference amid observed heads and modeled heads. Modelling results indicate that artificial recharge could augment groundwater levels in the area by 2 m.