A Preliminary Study on Aquifers and its Possible Geometry in Parts of Kashmir Valley, India

The present study used bore-well litholog data from six locations (Badampora, Telbal, Cheshmashai, Batwara, Karannagar and Bemina) to map the aquifers and its possible geometry in parts of Srinagar and Ganderbal districts, Kashmir valley, India. From the available data, a fence diagram was generated that depicted the occurrence of a 2–32 m thick upper alluvial layer of regional scale underlain by a 2–10 m thick sandy-silt horizon. Underlying this, a regional sandy horizon varying in thickness from 3 m (Telbal and Batwara) to 11 m (Bemina) is present at a depth of 7 m (at Badampora) to 32 m (at Bemina) below the ground level. The sandy stratum is followed by a number of granular horizons comprising alternate coarser sediments with clay as matrix at varying depths. Except the sandy stratum, the other litho-horizons/aquifers indicated heterogeneity and pinching character with a significant variation in nature and geometry from place to place both vertically and horizontally, thereby leading to wide variation in the water availability. Overall, the sub-surface horizons exhibit gradation from coarse detrital sediments (gravel, pebble, boulder and coarse sand) in NE-NW parts to fine sediments (clay, silt, and fine sand) in SE-SW parts of the area. The sandy stratum along with the overlying sandy silt horizon overlain by a regional clay blanket is probably acting as a single aquifer system providing a significant and potential groundwater resource in the area. The water bearing horizons in the upper sub-surface levels exists essentially under unconfined conditions while at deeper sub-surface levels water bearing aquifers exist under confined to semi-confined conditions. The general groundwater movement originates from N-NE upland areas towards S-SW lowland areas, almost replicating the local topography and the general slope of the area. Furthermore, the chemical quality analysis suggested that the groundwater is safe for drinking purposes and suitable for agricultural uses in this area.