Geoenvironmental Resource Assessment Using Remote Sensing and GIS: A Case study from Southern Coastal Region

Abstract This article describes the aspect of geoenvironment and portable groundwater zone of a watershed located in coastal tract around Tuticorin Corporation, Tamil Nadu, India, using remote sensing and GIS. Initially, based on satellite imagery, topographical, geomorphological and hydrogeological features, an area of about 206 sq.km was demarcated as a promising zone for groundwater exploration in the study area. The problem of the study is a representative case of overexploitation of groundwater resources, leading to the continuous exhaustion of the grained as well as the groundwater aquifer. In such situations topographic, landuse, geology, hydrogeological and geomorphological features provide useful clues for the selection of suitable areas. Identifying a good site for groundwater exploration in coastal terrain is a challenging task. From the fluctuation map it is found that maximum recharge in deeper water level is found in the central and southern part of the present study area. Eastern and Northern part of the study area shows minimum rise of water level of less than 4 m. The water level fluctuation of the study area compounds is considered for components of recharge. In general, the coastal terrain formations do not have good groundwater potential. Still, integrated studies help to ascertain the presence of hidden water bearing formations.