An integrated geospatial and analytical hierarchy process approach for sustainable water management in the Amravati District, India

Abstract

Groundwater is crucial for agriculture, domestic use, and industry. This study represents groundwater potential zones in the Amravati district, Maharashtra, India, using the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and multi-influencing factor (MIF) techniques. These techniques are employed for a detailed spatial analysis, which is essential for sustainable groundwater management. The study integrates data layers including lithology, geomorphology, land use/land cover, drainage density, lineament density, rainfall, soil, elevation, and slope to evaluate the groundwater potential. The resulting groundwater potential map classifies the area into five categories: poor, fair, moderate, good, and excellent based on groundwater availability. The study reveals that 9% of the area has poor groundwater potential, 37% fair, 28% moderate, 13% good, and 13% excellent. This map is instrumental for stakeholders and policymakers, as it aids in resource allocation and the formulation of sustainable groundwater management strategies. Through the application of AHP and MIF techniques, this study effectively maps the groundwater potential, providing an essential tool for evidence-based decision-making for water resource management in the Amravati district.