An approach to demarcate ground water potential zones through remote sensing and a geographical information system

Abstract In order to demarcate the ground water potential zones of Marudaiyar basin different thematic maps such as, lithology, landforms, lineaments and surface water bodies at a 1: 50000 scale were prepared, using remotely-sensed data as well as drainage density and slope classes from Survey of India topographical sheets. In addition, a soil map at 1:50000 scale covering the study area was generated from a 1:250000 scale soil map prepared by the Soil Survey and Landuse Organization by regrouping the soil types based on their hydrological characteristics. All the thematic layers were integrated and analysed using a model developed with logical conditions in the geographical information system (GIS). The ground water potential zones map generated through this model was verified with the yield data to ascertain the validity of the model developed. The verification showed that the ground water potential zones demarcated through the model are in agreement with the bore well yield data collected in the field. Since the present approach was built with logical conditions and reasoning, this approach can be successfully used elsewhere with appropriate modifications. Thus, the above study has clearly demonstrated the capabilities of remote sensing technique and GIS in demarcation of the different ground water potential zones, particularly in such a diverse geological set up.