A REVIEW ON MANAGED AQUIFER RECHARGE BY CHECK DAMS : A CASE STUDY NEAR CHENNAI, INDIA

Abstract

Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) through check dams is the intentional recharge of water in the aquifers. The objective of this paper is to present a review of research work carried out on the impact of check dams in improving the groundwater quantity, quality and livelihood of people. Further, investigation carried out on the effectiveness of a check dam across Arani River, located northwest of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India is also presented as a case study. The study reveals that proper maintenance of check dams will result in the sustainable replenishment of groundwater resources in a region. In general the MAR through check dam is found to be one of the efficient methods to improve the groundwater head and quality which in turn improve the livelihood of community as indicated by most of the studies. Case study carried out near Chennai is an evident that check dam has increased the groundwater level up to 1.5 m. Thus MAR by check dam can be considered as a best option for efficient and sustainable management of groundwater resources.