© 2024 The Authors Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2136 doi: 10.2166/wpt.2024.

100

Groundwater flow simulation for artificial recharge: a GIS, remote sensing,

and MODFLOW integration

Sanchita Nawale and Meenal Mategaonkar *

Department of Civil Engineering, NMIMS’ MPSTME, Mumbai, India
*Corresponding author. E-mail: [email protected]

MM, 0000-0003-3776-5624

ABSTRACT

Groundwater (GW) emerges as a sustainable resource to meet water demand, yet current GW reservoirs fall short of projected
population needs. Artificial GW recharge, bolstered by Geographical Information System (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS) technol-
ogies, stands out as a pivotal solution. Examining Aurangabad district in Maharashtra, India the study uncovers distinct
challenges: Aurangabad faces escalating water demand due to population growth, leading to GW over exploitation. Leveraging
hydrogeological parameters, rainfall analysis, and GW availability, the study proposes tailored GW recharge techniques. Utilizing
MODFLOW simulation, the study explores diverse recharge rates and existing GW availability, showcasing promising results.
Integration of stream augmentation, bladder pillow tank methods, and dug well recharge is examined via GIS and RS tech-
niques. Simulation outcomes project significant GW level increases (11.55–23.70 m) with varying recharge rates, effectively
meeting region-specific water demand projections. The findings underscore the imperative of sustainable water management
practices and technological advancements in addressing water scarcity crises.

Key words: artificial groundwater recharge, GIS, MODFLOW, RS, stream augmentation

HIGHLIGHTS

• Groundwater recharge using GIS and RS.

• Parameters to select proper method of GW recharging using like hydrogeological data, and rainfall data.
• Stream augmentation and bladder pillow method.
• Three cases with different percentages of available GW.
• Solving GW depletion problem.

INTRODUCTION
To meet the escalating water demands driven by population growth, a reliance on both surface water and ground-
water (GW) is imperative (Neelofar et al. 2023). However, the current mismanagement and over exploitation of
existing GW reserves emphasize the need for effective aquifer recharging and conservation efforts (Dangar et al.
2021). Two primary methods of aquifer recharging include direct and indirect approaches. Direct methods
involve subsurface recharging through bore wells, dug wells, recharge pits, or rainwater recharging, with well
recharging proving to be cost-effective. On the other hand, induced recharging is an indirect method where
water is pumped from a hydraulically connected aquifer to induce recharging (Yadav et al. 2012).
Recharge pits, serving as deeper structures with restricted bottom areas, address the challenge of artificial
recharging of phreatic aquifers from surface water sources (Reddy et al. 2020). This proves particularly beneficial
for over-exploited aquifers experiencing declining water levels due to tube well pumping. Additionally, injection
wells are employed in coastal regions to prevent seawater intrusion and counter land subsidence issues
(Paramasivam et al. 2022).
In regions with high mountainous areas, a technique based on estimating runoff and subsequent infiltration in
alluvial fans is utilized to gauge GW recharge distribution within hydrographic basins, as observed in the Great
Basin region of the southwestern United States (Jyrkama et al. 2002). These diverse methods underscore the

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Licence (CC BY 4.0), which permits copying,
adaptation and redistribution, provided the original work is properly cited (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2137

importance of implementing sustainable GW recharging strategies to ensure a continuous and reliable water
supply for future generations.
There are many methods for recharging the aquifers artificially like dugwell, stream augmentation, bladder
pillow method, flood recharging method, etc. The selection of method depends on various patterns like rainfall,
vegetation, elevation of the area, permeability, transmissivity of the aquifer, etc.
In this study, the simulations are carried out for Aurangabad district, Maharashtra, India. To get the geological
and hydrogeological parameters in the region, various maps like elevation, slope, hill shade area, Land Use-Land
Cover (LULC), and soil are plotted using GIS and RS. Based on various hydrogeological parameters a GW
recharge technique is proposed for satisfying the water demand of the projected population for five and ten
years. A numerical GW model, MODFLOW, based on the Finite Difference Method (FDM) is used for the simu-
lation of GW flow in the aquifers. These emerging techniques have proved to be effective in selecting the
appropriate recharging technique for the study area.

Case study – Aurangabad district

Aurangabad, situated in the north-central part of Maharashtra, India, is a city steeped in history and culture. Cov-
ering an expanse of 10,107 km2, the district is positioned between latitudes 19° 150 and 20° 400 north and
longitudes 74° 370 and 75° 520 east. Surrounded by districts such as Jalgaon to the north, Nashik to the west,
Ahmednagar, and Beed to the south, and Parbhani and Buldhana to the east, Aurangabad is not only a city
but also a gateway to numerous ancient wonders. The district boasts several captivating landmarks, including
the architectural marvel Bibi-ka Maqbara, the historic Panchakki, and the UNESCO World Heritage Sites,
Ajanta, and Ellora Caves. These sites attract tourists from around the globe, showcasing the rich cultural heritage
of India. Aurangabad district comprises nine smaller districts (Talukas) – Aurangabad, Kannad, Soygaon, Sillod,
Phulambri, Khuldabad, Vaijapur, Gangapur, and Paithan – ensuring efficient administration. With a total area of
10,100 km2, of which 726 km2 are covered by forests, the district’s landscape is diverse and picturesque. Agricul-
ture is the backbone of the region, with approximately 60% of the population relying on GW for sustenance.
Notably, the district is home to the renowned Ellora and Ajanta caves, adding historical significance to its natural
beauty. The Daulatabad fort and Bibi-ka Maqbara structures stand as testaments to the region’s historical
prominence.
In essence, Aurangabad stands as a harmonious blend of cultural heritage, historical treasures, and natural
splendor, making it a captivating destination for both residents and visitors seeking a journey through time
and culture.
The location map and elevation map of Aurangabad is shown in Figures 1 and 2, respectively.
The pre-monsoon depth to water level in Aurangabad district, observed in May 2011, reveals a
predominant depth of 5–10 m below sea level (mbsl) across most of the region. However, in the Sillod
and Soygaon talukas in the northeastern section, depths between 2 and 5 mbsl are noted. Notably,
Vaijapur, Gangapur, Khuldabad, and Chauka talukas exhibit deeper levels, ranging from 10 to 20 mbsl.
The November 2011 map indicates depths ranging from 0 to 5 m below ground level (mbgl) in the district’s
northern, central, and southern regions (CGWB 2013). The eastern and western regions show depths of
5–10 m below the surface, while the eastern region of Aurangabad Taluka notes depths between 10 and
20 mbgl.
Analyzing water level trends from 2002 to 2011 for 43 monitoring stations, an increase is observed during the
pre-monsoon period at 26 stations, ranging from 0.06 to 1.30 m per year. Two stations show decreasing trends,
ranging from 0.04 to 0.08 m per year. Post-monsoon, water levels rise at 16 stations, varying from 0.04 to
1.26 m per year, with a difference of 15 stations showing a decline (CGWB 2013). The overall trend indicates
rising water levels in most of the district at a rate of 0–0.20 m per year.
An earlier study on the shallow aquifer in Aurangabad district highlights specific capacity in basalt ranging
from 35 to 1,992 L per minute per meter of drawdown (Sahu & Saha 2014). Dug wells, especially in basaltic ter-
rain, show varying depths and yields, with those in morphological depressions producing more water. Borewells
in Deccan Trap Basalt exhibit fluctuations in discharge, ranging from 500 to 3,000 LPH. Figures 3–8 illustrate
these hydrogeological conditions of Aurangabad district.
The aquifer parameters of the shallow aquifer for the study area are presented in Table 1. The rainfall con-
ditions of Aurangabad are shown in Figure 9.

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2138

Figure 1 | Location map (Aurangabad district).

GW demand
The projected population and corresponding GW demand for Aurangabad district is calculated and is shown in
Table 2.
The available GW for the year 2021 is 27.71 MCM (CGWB 2013). Therefore, it is required to recharge the wells
for 28.88 MCM for 2026 and 54.75 MCM for 2031. After considering all the parameters and rainfall data, it is
required to select the appropriate aquifer recharging technique for the Aurangabad district. Figure 10 gives the
flowchart for the selection of aquifer recharging.
GW is frequently over-extracted in drought-prone areas in Aurangabad district in way to order to supply resi-
dents, businesses, and agriculture with the water they need. This causes GW levels to drop, and in extreme

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2139

Figure 2 | Elevation of Aurangabad.

situations, it can cause aquifers to run dry. To satisfy the water demand of the projected population, it is required
to recharge the aquifers. There are many methods for recharging GW like dugwell, stream augmentation, bladder
pillow method, flood routing method etc. (Jatoth & Pawan 2020) For this area stream augmentation techniques
can be useful. The decision for the selection of this technique is explained in the Figure 10.

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2140

Figure 3 | Land Use-Land Cover (LULC) map of Aurangabad.

Stream augmentation
This approach involves the placement of a series of check dams in a natural stream or river to artificially
increase seepage (Naseem et al. 2019). By strategically positioning stone check dams and employing bladder

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2141

Figure 4 | Soil map of Aurangabad.

pillow tank techniques, the goal is to promote GW recharge. The method aims to distribute water more exten-
sively, utilizing the combined effects of stone check dams and flexible bladder pillow tanks to facilitate
controlled water release. The ongoing study evaluates the efficacy of this artificial technique in enhancing

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2142

Figure 5 | Stream with hill shade map of Aurangabad.

stream flow, replenishing GW, and sustaining the local ecosystem. The practical application of this method
suggests a balanced approach to water management, addressing the need for sustainable GW recharge in
specific environmental contexts.

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2143

Figure 6 | Slope map of Aurangabad.

GW flow simulation
Considering all these parameters, GW flow simulation is carried out using FDM. MODFLOW developed by the
United States Geological Survey (USGS) uses the FDM approach is a used to carry out the flow simulations for

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2144

Figure 7 | Hill shade map of Aurangabad.

GW. The concerned area is delineated using boundary conditions and divided into several finite grids. Before
carrying out the simulation, it is required to calibrate the model with respect to the observed current data. The
procedure to carry out the simulation using MODFLOW is shown in Figure 11.

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2145

Figure 8 | Watershed map of Aurangabad.

Calibration of the model

For Aurangabad district, the steady-state model is run in 2011 to calibrate the model. Aquifer parameters in the
district are determined through pumping tests on dug wells in both basaltic and alluvial terrain, as well as GW
exploration in the alluvial area (Varade et al. 2014). Table 3 gives the hydrological parameters for the GW model.

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2146

Table 1 | Aquifer parameters for Aurangabad (CGWB 2013)

Depth range Static water Draw

Taluka Type of well Lithology (m bgl) level (m bgl) Discharge (lps) down (m) Zone E (m bgl)

Aurangabad EW 10, OW 1 Basalt 70.00– 5.00–17.80 Traces to 1.86 6.50– 6.50–13.50, 30.70–
200.00 15.70 34.80
Gangapur EW 9, Basalt and 200.00 & 4.50 to Traces to 1.80 5.40 to 7.40 to 10.40,
Alluvium Alluvium 24.40– 19.00 & & 0.01 to 48.70 56.20–59.30 &
EW4, OW 1 28.50 8.00 to 1.73 &– 17.50–18.50,
18.00 24.00–25.00
Kannad EW 9, OW 2 Basalt 36.70– 3.50–8.00 Traces to 0.78 2.95– 3.50–6.50, 124.00–
200.00 30.90 148.00
Khuldabad EW 2 Basalt 204.75 5.60–18.10 0.38–0.78 14.80– 19.60–28.80
15.70
Paithan EW 6 OW 1 Basalt 198–67- .60–9.00 0.38–20.00 4.43 6.90 7.00–27.10
204.75 to
10.40
Phulambri EW 4 Basalt 200.00 5.25–10.00 Traces to 1.73 3.22 to 9.10–162
21.82
Sillod EW 7, OW 1, Basalt 5.25–16.50 18.00 to 0.02–3.17 1.88 to 3.10–6.20, 95.90–
.100 72.10 93.00
Soygaon EW 2, OW 1 Basalt 98.00– 5.60 3.17–25.50 16.32– 15.00–18.10, 90.0–
200.00 34.45 107.10
Vaijapur EW 8, Basalt and 5.60–10.40 5.60–10.40 Traces to 9.84 0.80 to 3.50–12.70, 76. 40
Alluvium Alluvium & 10.00 & 10.00 & 0.20 to 25.50 & 13.00–16.00,
EW 3, OW to 15.00 to 15.00 4.50 &– 21.00–23.50
2
Total EW 64, OW ————– 16.25– 3.50–19.00 Traces to 0.80– 3.10–148.00
10 200.00 25.50 72.10

Figure 9 | Water level rainfall relationship graph of Aurangabad district (CHRS 2023).

Table 2 | GW demand for the projected population of Aurangabad

Year Population GW demand in MCM Difference

2021 45,70,000 738.93 MCM 56.59 MCM

2026 49,20,000 795.52 MCM
2031 50,80,000 821.39 MCM 82.46 MCM

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2147

Figure 10 | Flow chart for the selection of aquifer recharging technique for Aurangabad.

Figure 11 | Procedure for the simulation of GW flows using MODFLOW.

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2148

Table 3 | Parameters used for the GW model – MODFLOW (CGWB 2013)

Parameters Values

Drawdown 110 lpm

Evaporation 10 mm
Infiltration rate 76 m3/h
Avg. infiltration capacity 1.75 cm/hr
Transmissivity 369 and 757 m2
Storativity 2.6  103
Permeability 0.19 m/day
Discharge 47 lps
Well diameter 50 cm
Total area 10,100 km2
Cell size 50 m  50 m
Injection rate 1,000 m3/d

The results are compared to the observed data of the existing wells. The model is simulated for the next years,
and the data are again compared to the observed data. The obtained root mean square error is 0.9606. The cali-
bration is shown in Figure 12 and the mass balance of the existing GW table is shown in Figure 13.

Figure 12 | Calibration of the GW model.

In Aurangabad, the GW demand for 2021 is observed to be 738.67 MCM which agrees with the available
requirement of the district (CGWB 2013). When the population grew from 45,70,000 in 2021 to 49, 20,000 in
2016, an additional 56.59 MCM of GW recharge is needed by 2026 and for the population of 50,80,000, an
additional 82.46 MCM is needed by 2031. These projections underscore the urgency of sustainable GW manage-
ment practices to align water resources with the rising population demands.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

For recharging of the aquifers in the region, 37 stream augmentation shafts are proposed, and the GW levels are
simulated for 2026 and 2031. The locations and initial GW levels are given in Table 4.

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2149

Figure 13 | Mass balance graph for Aurangabad district.

Table 4 | The locations/diameters and initial water levels in the wells considered for recharging

S. No. Taluka Latitude Longitude GW depth (m) before recharge Well dia. (m)

1 Aurangabad 19°870 62″ 75°340 33″ 13 10

2 Abdimandi 19°930 6″ 75°230 92″ 13 8
3 Adgaon Bk 19°810 63″ 75°440 03″ 13 6
4 Adgaon Kh 20°100 19″ 75°550 39″ 13 6
5 Adgaon Maholi 19°950 65″ 75°480 39″ 12 7
6 Adgaon Sarak 19°970 32″ 75°510 02″ 15 6
7 Anjandoh 18°350 67″ 75°00 97″ 13 5
8 Gangapur Nehari 19°690 75″ 75°010 50″ 17 8
9 Garkheda 19°850 86″ 75°340 97″ 15 9
10 Gavadari Tanda 20°370 35″ 75°610 75″ 14 5
11 Georai 19°260 06″ 75°750 46″ 17 6
12 Vaijapur 19°920 57″ 74°720 85″ 18 6
13 Babhulgaon Bk° 20°230 14″ 75°590 03″ 16 4
14 Babhulgaon Ganga 20°080 39″ 75°000 55″ 17 6
15 Babhulgaon Kh° 20°030 55″ 74°970 64″ 15 8
16 Babhulkheda 20°530 37″ 75°510 27″ 22 6
17 Babhultel 20°170 66″ 74°830 83″ 14 5
18 Kannad 20°260 98″ 75°130 41 20 7
19 Adgaon 20°320 89″ 75°450 2″ 15 7
20 Adgaon Jehur 20°230 53″ 74°910 23″ 22 8
0
21 Alapur 20°12 31″ 75°110 66″ 18 8
22 Andhaner 20°270 35″ 75°100 13″ 17 8
23 Antapur 20°110 78″ 75°100 64″ 16 8
24 Kultabad 20°000 76″ 75°190 25″ 8.2 5
25 Akhatwade 20°070 26″ 75°170 2″ 14 8
26 Azampur 20°120 02″ 75°150 16″ 17 7
27 Phulambri 20°080 86″ 75°410 76″ 12 10
28 Sillod 20°300 79″ 75°650 28″ 10.65 8
29 Adharwadi 20°480 43″ 75°460 65″ 15 7
0
30 Ajantha 20°53 29″ 75°450 02″ 14 5
31 Ambhai 20°460 67″ 75°560 84″ 18 6
32 Soyegaon 20°590 45″ 75°610 64″ 13 7
33 Amkheda 20°580 88″ 75°600 04″ 8 5
34 Bahulkheda 20°530 37″ 75°510 27″ 18 7
35 Paithan 19°470 77″ 75°380 49″ 10.5 5
36 Adool Tanda 19°600 93″ 75°510 02″ 14 9
37 Akhatwada 20°070 26″ 75°170 2″ 17 6

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2150

The well depths before recharging are shown in Figure 14.

To calculate the recharging rate for the projected GW demand, the three cases are considered. It is decided to
consider 100, 80 and 50% availability of GW. Tables 5 and 6 give the average recharge rates and potential

Figure 14 | Water levels before recharging.

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2151

Table 5 | Projected recharge rates and increase in GW levels for 2026

Average potential increase

Case Existing GW availability (%) Average recharge rate (m3/d) per well in water levels in the wells (m)

I 100 427.82 11.55

II 80 509.11 13.75
III 50 753.48 20.35

Table 6 | Projected recharge rates and increase in GW levels for 2031

Case Existing GW availability (%) Average recharge rate per well (m3/d) Average potential increase in GW levels (m)

I 100 812.86 14.3

II 80 1,142.29 17.10
III 50 1,631.03 23.7

Figure 15 | GW levels after recharge for 100% consideration of available GW (2026).

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2152

Figure 16 | GW levels after recharge for 80% consideration of available GW (2026).

increase in water levels in the wells for 2026 and 2031 for achieving the projected GW demand of 28.88 MCM
and 54.75 MCM, respectively.
Aurangabad district, characterized by an average rainfall of 705 mm (CHRS 2023), is confronted with the
classification of D2 severe drought conditions. The burgeoning population compounds the challenge of meeting

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2153

Figure 17 | GW levels after recharge for 50% consideration of available GW (2026).

water demand, especially with inadequate surface water availability. Hydrological modeling delineates alluvial
river surfaces primarily in Vaijapur and Paithan, showcasing varied values from 0.001 to 68.771 m for contours
and river parameters. Noteworthy water bodies and streams are identified in Paithan, Vaijapur, and select parts of

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2154

Figure 18 | GW levels after recharge for 100% consideration of available GW (2031).

Aurangabad. Aspect parameters suggest cooler north-facing slopes, while hill shade maps indicate a rolling to flat
terrain spanning elevations from 450 to 900 m. Stream augmentation emerges as an effective strategy, considering
the terrain, rainfall pattern, soil pattern etc. For the simulation of GW, three cases are considered, i.e. the
recharge rate and GW level increase are found out with 100, 80 and 50% availability of GW.

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2155

Figure 19 | GW levels after recharge for 80% consideration of available GW (2031).

The GW levels for all these cases are shown in the Figures 15–20.
It observed that, for 5 years of simulation the average recharge rates are 427.82, 509.11 and 753.48 m3/d with
the average increase in GW level as 11.55, 13.75 and 20.35 m, respectively. Similarly, for 10 years of simulation,

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2156

Figure 20 | GW levels after recharge for 50% consideration of available GW (2031).

the respective recharge rates are 812.86, 1142.29 and 1631.03 m3/d with the average rise in GW levels as 14.3,
17.10 and 23.7 m. Considering the available depth of wells in Aurangabad district, it is observed that the increase
in GW levels is within the safe limits.

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest
 Water Practice & Technology Vol 19 No 5, 2157

With the help of GIS and RS, it is possible to draw various maps like elevation, slope soil, hill shade, water
shade, and LULC to understand various parameters. Projected rainfall data are helping in getting the rainfall pat-
tern of the area. Putting all parameters together, it is possible to select the GW recharging method. In this study,
the simulation can be carried out for recharging the aquifers for the projected population.

CONCLUSION
The study focuses on addressing water scarcity in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, India, exacerbated by
overexploitation of GW resources and uneven rainfall patterns. Employing GIS, RS, and MODFLOW simulation,
artificial GW recharge techniques are proposed to mitigate the crisis. Stream augmentation and bladder pillow
tanks informed by hydrogeological parameters and rainfall data aim to replenish aquifers sustainably. Results
indicate a potential increase in GW levels ranging between 11 and 24 m, effectively meeting projected water
demands for a projected population of five and ten years. The recharge rates are ranging from 400 to
1,650 m3/d. The study underscores the critical role of innovative technology and sustainable water management
practices in addressing the pressing issue of water scarcity in these regions, ensuring a reliable water supply for
current and future generations.

DATA AVAILABILITY STATEMENT

All relevant data are included in the paper or its Supplementary Information.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST
The authors declare there is no conflict.

REFERENCES

CGWB 2013 Groundwater Information, Aurangabad District, Maharashtra, Central Ground Water Board. Available from:
https://www.cgwb.gov.in/old_website/District_Profile/Maharashtra/Aurangabad.pdf
CHRS 2023 Center for Hydrometrology and Remote Sensing. Available from: http://chrsdata.eng.uci.edu
Dangar, S., Asoka, A. & Mishra, V. 2021 Causes and implications of groundwater depletion in India: A review. Journal of
Hydrology 596, 126103. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhydrol.2021.126103.
Jatoth, V. & Pawan, J. 2020 Groundwater Recharges Technology for Water Resource management: A Case Study. Groundwater
Management and Resources, Intechopen. doi: 10.5772/intechopen.93946.
Jyrkama, M. I., Sykes, J. F. & Normani, S. D. 2002 Recharge estimation for transient ground water modeling. Ground Water 40,
638–648. doi:10.1111/j.1745-6584. 2002.tb0255.x 10.1111/j.1745-6584. 2002.tb02550.x.
Naseem, A., Xiangzhou, X., Manuel, E., Weiqin, D. & Liu, B. 2019 The use of check dams in watershed management projects:
Examples from around the world. The Science of Total Environment. (in press). doi:10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.04.249.
Neelofar, M. R., Bhat, S. U. & Muslim, M. 2023 Water auditing and recycling as a tool for management of water resources: An
Indian perspective. Applied Water Science 13, 176. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13201-023-01979-2.
Paramasivam, C. R., Chuluke, D., Chena, D. & Senapathi, V. 2022 Artificial recharge techniques in coastal aquifers.
doi:10.1016/B978-0-12-824387-9.00020-7.
Reddy, M. S., Namburu, S. & Kone, V. 2020 A study on ground water problems, artificial recharge techniques in Musunuru.
Materials Today: Proceedings 33(1), 353–359.
Sahu, S. & Saha, D. 2014 Geomorphologic, stratigraphic and sedimentologic evidence of tectonic activity in Sone–Ganga
alluvial tract in Middle Ganga Plain, India. Journal of Earth System Science 123(6), 1335–1347.
Varade, A., Shende, R., Lamsoge, B., Dongre, K. & Rajput, A. 2014 Efficacy of Kumarswamy Method in Determining Aquifer
Parameters of Large-Diameter.
Yadav, A., Sonje, A., Mathur, P. & Jain, D. A. 2012 A review on artificial groundwater recharge. Int. J. Pharm. Biosci 3(3),
304–311.

First received 17 February 2024; accepted in revised form 9 April 2024. Available online 20 April 2024

Downloaded from http://iwaponline.com/wpt/article-pdf/19/5/2136/1431593/wpt0192136.pdf

by guest