Evaluation of the Potential for Artificial Groundwater Recharge of Crystalline Rocks Aquifer, Nuba Mountains (Sudan)

Biteira district lies in southern Sudan, underlain by deformed basement rocks. The geological setting of this area, with its position in the heavy savannah region, has produced water scarcity in the dry season. Also, the steady population growth and the expansion of agricultural activities, coupled with desertification and climate issues, have further augmented the stress on the resources of water. To overcome such a problem, we proposed the artificial recharging of groundwater at a specific location as a justified solution. Detailed geological, hydrometeorological, hydrological, and drainage pattern studies—along with an analysis of soil grain size and tests of infiltration—have been taken into consideration in this investigation. In addition, a Landsat image covering the area was analysed to obtain data bearing of regional features and structures. The results show that the selected area is suitable for groundwater recharge, the proposed dam is capable of storing water with a capacity of \( 20.73 \times 10^{6} \;{\text{m}}^{3} \), the infiltration average rate is 1.23 m3/day, and groundwater flow estimated towards NW direction (approximately 285°). The proper position of the potential water wells has been determined. The proposed approach proved to be the most rapid and reliable method to investigate the basement-dominant region for artificial groundwater recharge.