Delineation and Evaluation of Groundwater Potential Zones Around Borkhedi Reservoir Project from Lonar Tehsil, District- Buldhana (MS), India by Using Geospatial Techniques

The study looks into the groundwater potential in the villages in Lonar Tehsil, Buldhana District, Maharashtra, that are close to the Borkhedi Project. The study defines Groundwater Potential Zones (GWPZs) by combining thematic layers, such as Geology, Geomorphology, Land Use/Land Cover (LULC), Soil, Rainfall, Lineament Density, Drainage Density, Slope, Normalize Difference Water Index (NDWI), and Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data, using sophisticated geospatial techniques, particularly Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS). Because of their direct and indirect effects on the occurrence, flow, and storage of groundwater, these layers were chosen. Each parameter was given a weight using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), allowing for a fair assessment of groundwater potential. The analysis’s objectivity and consistency are improved by this multicriteria decision-making method. Groundwater levels varied significantly depending on lithology, slope, land cover, and hydrological parameters, according to spatial study. Groundwater levels in villages like Weni, Sultanpur, and Borkhedi were dropping, perhaps as a result of excessive extraction or inadequate recharging. This suggests that conservation and better water management measures are required. On the other hand, Koyali, Udanapur, Karegaon, Matarkhed, Mehkar, Pardi Pr. Mehkar, and Tandulwadi had better conditions, maybe as a result of conservation or recharge strategies such check dams, percolation tanks, or afforestation initiatives. Despite seasonal variations, some regions maintained steady groundwater levels, indicating robust aquifer properties and sustainable use practices. The study emphasizes the necessity of ongoing groundwater monitoring, particularly with regard to seasonal fluctuations. Long-term planning requires an understanding of recharge and aquifer health, which can be obtained by analyzing pre- and post-monsoon oscillations. This study emphasizes the significance of sustainable groundwater management and offers crucial recommendations for planners, legislators, and other stakeholders involved in regional water resource policies.