Groundwater Recharge Potential Mapping in Far Western Middle Mountain of Nepal: A GIS-based Approach

Abstract

The larger population in the middle mountain region of Nepal is dependenton spring for domestic water use. Availability and flow regularity of springs rely on groundwater recharge (GWR) potential which is attributed to various natural and human factors. The present study is an attempt to explore the GWR potential using GIS and Remote sensing (RS) method in two watersheds of the far western middle mountains of Nepal. Spatial analysis is carried out using a weighted overlay analysis of six factors namely, slope, lithology, lineament, drainage density, rainfall, and land cover/ land use. The result shows that only 16 percent of the total watershed area is under a very high recharge potential zone while 31 percent area falls under very low recharge potential. It is found that the distribution of existing spring sources is random concerning GWR potential. Water stress in Rel Gad watershed is evident which accentuates the proper management of recharge areas. The study concludes that the GIS RS tool is useful in identifying recharge potential zones. It aids to better planning for increasing recharge potential. Proper management of recharge potential area and spring water sources direct the future water availability to fulfill the increasing water need of the communities.