Evaluation of sedimentary aquifers for the future settlement of population in Northern Quetta valley using vertical Electrical Sounding

Abstract

Abstract The aim of study to explore the potential of groundwater aquifers in northern area of Quetta valley due to rapidly shifting huge population from whole province of Balochistan and thousands of refugees from Afghanistan border. The depletion of groundwater resources In Quetta valley has become a severe issue, mainly due to prolonged droughts, unregulated extraction, urbanization, and inadequate understanding of the Complex geological conditions. To gain a more in-depth understanding of the hydrogeological conditions in the northern areas of Quetta valley, Geophysical resistivity survey was conducted to explore the subsurface groundwater aquifer and their potential. Total 12 VES were conducted along three different profile lines at the depth of 450m VES interval of 2Km from Pishin bypass to Bostan area. The collected data was processed and analysed using IPI2win software to create geoelectrical section and pseudo-sections displaying the layers and thicknesses of each survey point. It is interpreted that two aquifers are present at various depths, first shallow low potential aquifer lie in silty clay and silty sand lithology in profile 01. In profile 2 and 3 aquifer bearing limestone lithology were encountered. The aquifers in the area are characterized as low pressure and low potential due to the accumulation of silt. It is not advisable to solely rely on groundwater as a source of water for the increasing population. Alternative water sources should be explored, and measures such as installing artificial wells should be taken to recharge the aquifers. Additionally, it is essential that the relevant departments formulate monitoring strategies to keep track of the groundwater levels in the area.