Evaluation of aquifer parameters through integrated approach of geophysical investigations, pumping test analysis and Dar-Zarrouk parameters in the central part of Bari Doab, Punjab, Pakistan

In the central part of Bari Doab in Punjab Province of Pakistan, the factors such as sporadic rainfall pattern, decrement of water in rivers, subsurface salinity and excessive mining of groundwater have badly affected the hydrogeology and recharge system of aquifer. The present research work is an endeavour to evaluate the characteristics and potential of aquifer for its future sustainable availability within the study area of central part of Bari Doab. The geophysical studies, pumping tests data, borehole logs and Dar-Zarrouk parameters were used integrally to evaluate the aquifer hydraulic and hydrologic parameters in the study area. VES technique of geophysical investigations using Schlumberger electrodes configuration was carried out at sparsely distributed 435 locations. Litho-logs and VES results altogether decipher that the subsurface alluvial succession is primarily composed of intermixed layers of sand, gravel, clay, silt and some kankar inclusions. The VES data allied with pumping test analysis of test wells in the study area were used to evaluate the aquifer hydraulic properties. Comparatively low values of discharge rate, hydraulic conductivity and transmissivity were evaluated in two wells whilst relatively higher values of these parameters were evaluated in rest of six wells. The results of hydrologic parameters also confirm the results of hydraulic parameters in the wells. Finally, the Dar-Zarrouk parameters were used for the estimation of hydraulic parameters for whole study area and the aquifer zones of relatively high and low potential were delineated.