In the face of changing climate: Groundwater development through artificial recharge in hard rock terrain of Kumaun Lesser Himalaya

Abstract

The study indicates that abnormal weather phenomena in the form of less rainfall with no snowfall and reduction in number of rainy days, short span heavy rainfall, hydrogeologic and geomorphologic conditions of the aquifer system and availability of surface water resource are the major limitations for groundwater recharge in the study area. A detailed study of the seven microwatersheds of Western Ramganga River in the Kumaun Lesser Himalayan terrain has been carried out to identify and propose area specific artificial groundwater recharge structures (AGRS) using remote sensing, geographical information system, field survey and multi criteria decision making techniques (MCDM). The small-scale AGRS structures can be built across lower order streams in order to enhance infiltration into the subsurface formations. The results of the present study can serve as guidelines for planning future artificial recharge projects in the area in order to ensure dependable water supply and sustainable groundwater utilization on a long-term basis.