Research Journal of Applied Sciences

Year: 2008
Volume: 3
Issue: 8
Page No. 550 - 559

A GIS Based DRASTIC Model for Assessing Groundwater Vulnerability in Shallow Aquifers in Hangzhou-Jiaxing-Huzhou Plain, China

Authors : Jean De Dieu Bazimenyera and Tang Zhonghua

Abstract: Hangzhou-Jiaxing-Huzhou plain is among the regions, which faces the shortage of water due to its increasing population, industrialization, agriculture and domestic use, hence, the high dependence on groundwater. In China, the exploitation of aquifers has been historically undertaken without proper concern for environmental impacts or even the concept of sustainable yield. In order to maintain basin aquifer as a source of water for the area, it is necessary to find out, whether certain locations in this groundwater basin are susceptible to receive and transmit pollution. That is why, the main objective of this research is to find out the groundwater vulnerable zones using DRASTIC model in Hangzhou-Jiaxing-Huzhou plain. Geographical Information System (GIS) is used to create groundwater vulnerability map by overlaying hydro-geological data. The input of the model is provided by the following seven data layers: depth to water, net recharge, aquifer media, soil media, topography, impact of vadose zone and hydraulic conductivity. This study shows that Hangzhou-Jiaxing-Huzhou area is grouped into three categories: High vulnerable zone with 30.4% of the total area, moderate vulnerable zone, which occupy the great part of that area 62.08% and low vulnerable zone with 7.52%. This research suggests, first the prioritization of high vulnerable areas in order to prevent the further pollution to already polluted areas; next the frequent monitoring of vulnerable zones to monitor the changing level of pollutants and finally suggests that this model can be an effective tool for local authorities who are responsible for managing groundwater resources in that area.

How to cite this article:

Jean De Dieu Bazimenyera and Tang Zhonghua , 2008. A GIS Based DRASTIC Model for Assessing Groundwater Vulnerability in Shallow Aquifers in Hangzhou-Jiaxing-Huzhou Plain, China. Research Journal of Applied Sciences, 3: 550-559.

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