Mr. Gokul Prasad will present his APS as per the detail below:
Date: 15th March 2023, Wednesday
Time: 1800 - 1900 hrs.
Mode: Online link: https://monash.zoom.us/j/89436167045?pwd=S3U1QTIwV3Nhb0ZXZkEyNzkxOHl4Zz09
Title: Groundwater depletion scenario for rural India: using isotopes and modelling
Guide: Prof. Pennan Chinnasamy (IITB) and Dr. Ian Cartwright (Monash University)
RPC Members: Prof. Bellie Sivakumar (IITB) and Prof. Adam Kessler (Monash University)
Abstract:
Groundwater is a crucial source of water in India, and it is estimated that approximately 60% of the country's water supply is obtained from groundwater. Despite its significance, the overexploitation of groundwater resources has led to their potential depletion in many parts of India. Groundwater management is essential to ensure the sustainability of this vital resource and to meet the increasing demand for water in the country. Environmental isotope study is an important tool in managing groundwater. It provides valuable information on the recharge mechanism, flow paths, and origin of groundwater, as well as its age, quality, and vulnerability. This information is crucial for groundwater resource management, especially in areas where groundwater is the primary source of water.
The present report study primarily focusses on the groundwater situation in Nashik, Maharashtra, India. Nashik is a semi-arid region, and groundwater is the primary source of water for both domestic and agricultural purposes. The study was conducted to assess the current groundwater situation in the region and to identify areas of concern for possible groundwater isotope study and management plans. A situation analysis study was carried out in the Nashik region to understand the groundwater management practices and to identify areas that need improvement. This was followed by fieldwork and groundwater sample collection in the study site. The collected samples were then analysed using environmental isotope techniques, specifically stable isotopes (18O and 2H) and tritium with the assistance of collaborative partner BARC, Mumbai.
The isotope analysis work was carried out using IAEA data. This information can be used to inform future groundwater management and conservation efforts in the study area and other parts of India. It is crucial to study precipitation and its isotopic composition as it provides valuable information about the water cycle and its impact on groundwater resources. The results of this study demonstrate the importance of studying precipitation and its isotopic composition to better understand groundwater resources and inform future management decisions. This may include developing an integrated groundwater management plan, promoting the use of alternative water sources, and implementing effective measures to prevent contamination of groundwater. Additionally, regular monitoring of the groundwater resources and conducting similar studies in other regions of India will help to sustainably manage the country's groundwater resources.
The study highlights the importance of environmental isotope studies in managing groundwater resources and the crucial role that such studies play in ensuring the sustainability of this vital resource. The results of the study in Nashik, Maharashtra, India, and precipitation data highlight the role and need for improved groundwater management practices and the importance of continued monitoring and research to ensure the sustainability of the groundwater resources in the region and beyond.