Conference Papers
Geochemistry of Chromian Spinels from the Indo-Myanmar Ophiolite Belt of Northeastern India
SKU:
C-63395
Chromite is commonly used for deciphering the petrogenesis and geodynamic setting of ultramafic rocks. Chromespinels from the Indo-Myanmar ophiolite belt occurring in the form of podiform chromitites associated with the mantle sequence and associated volcanic rocks are studied to characterise their geochemical composition. We have measured major and trace element concentrations of the chrome-spinels. Cr/(Cr+Al) (Cr#) and Mg/(Mg+Fe2+) (Mg#) range from 66 to 70 and 66 to 69 respectively in the chromitite and 47 to 56 and 67 to 70 in volcanic spinel. The computed crystallization conditions show that the studied samples crystallized in an upper mantle environment. Using the chrome spinel compositions, parental magma for the chromitite rock is calculated as boninite, and a MORB for the volcanic sample. Minor and trace element (Ga, Ni, Zn, Co, Mn, V, Sc) concentrations in the analysed spinels are comparable to other podiform chromitites hosted in the mantle section of the ophiolite complexes. Chrome-spinel compositions of the two rocks are used to recognize the probable crystallization condition and nature of the parental magma.
Geochemistry of Gold-Hosting Granitoids from Jonnagiri Greenstone Belt, Eastern Dharwar Craton: Implications on Petrogenesis and Gold Mineralization
SKU:
C-165463
Jonnagiri gold deposit is a lone example of granitoid-hosted orogenic gold deposit in India. Gold mineralization is concentrated within silicified alteration zones along shear zones within the Pagadarayi granodiorite. Geochemical characteristics of unaltered Pagadarayi granodiorite show that, (i) these are granodiorite-tonalite suite of rocks, (ii) contain lower and variable amount of silica (63-72%), (iii) high Fe(Tot), (iv) varying alkali concentrations, (v) large variations in LILE and LREE, particularly K2O, Sr, Ba, Th, La, Ce. Further, in the Harker-type variation diagrams these granitoids show (i) decreasing agpaitic index (molecular Al2O3/Na2O + K2O) with increasing SiO2, (ii) characteristically low Sr/Sr* values, and (iii) no significant correlation of (Ce/Y)N. Hence, these rocks were possibly derived from partial melting of a mafic source with contribution from the LILE-enriched felsic crust. Harker-type variation diagrams plotted against SiO2 show decreasing trend for Fe2O3, MgO, CaO and TiO2 while Na2O increases with increasing silica content. These features are consistent with the initial stage fractional crystallization of plagioclase, pyroxene ? magnetite, followed by hornblende and biotite at a later stage. The higher Na2O, CaO, Sr and lower Cr, Ni, concentrations are similar to the continental arc magmas and therefore, these are grouped under the I-type granitoids which is in agreement with their crystallization from more oxidized melts in relation to major granitoid-hosted gold deposits elsewhere in the world.
Geochemistry of PGE-Bearing Ultramafic Rocks from Ikauna in Madawara Complex, Bundelkhand Craton, Central India
SKU:
C-63397
Based on the field, petrological and geochemical data, the ultramafic rocks near Ikauna in Madawara Igneous Complex are found to occur as E-W trending lensoidal intrusive bodies in a major shear zone predominantly consisting of granite-gneisses in Bundelkhand craton, central India. Cumulates of olivine and pyroxene are the major mineral constituents while the intergranular spaces are occupied by chromite, pyrrhotite, pentlandite and magnetite. These rocks show variation in their chemical composition with moderately low SiO2 and high Mg# (0.67-0.88), with high Ni, Cr and Co. The peridotites are Al-undepleted, while the pyroxenites are Al-depleted-Ti enriched showing chemical affinity towards Komatiitic composition although their textural characters do not reflect the same. SEM-EDS studies indicate presence of fine grained platinum group minerals (PGM) including other precious metal minerals (PMM) as disseminated grains in the interstitial spaces of olivine cumulates and pyroxenes. Ni/Cu, Cu/Pd and Pd/Ir ratios suggests late stage sulfidation prevailed over S-saturation conditions during crystallization of PGE/PMM. The concentrations of platinum group elements (PGE) and Au are variable (Ir 2.4-18.8 ng/g, Ru 34.8-79.6 ng/g, Rh 0.8 - 20 ng/g, Pt 6.8-128.2 ng/g, Pd 6.8-86.8 ng/g and Au 22.8-127.2 ng/g) and their distribution patterns represents relative enrichment of Ru, Pt, Pd compared to Ir and Rh. The trends of REE fractionation and geochemical discrimination diagrams suggest derivation of Ikauna ultramafic rocks at moderate depths from high degree of partial melting from fertile mantle.
Geological Mapping of Foundation Floor for Nuclear Building of Rajasthan Atomic Power Project, Rawatbhata, India
SKU:
C-95903
Foundation floor mapping is essential for important structures to provide permanent data set for geological interpretations. At Rawatbhata, Rajasthan, two units of 700 MW each Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) type Nuclear Reactors are being constructed adjacent to existing Rajasthan Atomic Power Project (RAPP) units 1 to 6. In order to evaluate the design basis foundation parameters engineering geological mapping on 1:100 scale was carried out for Nuclear Building-7 structures. 1 m x 1 m grids were prepared for mapping of the floors and walls. Based on the field observations and evidences, it was found that the floor area consists of fine to medium grained, compact quartzitic sandstones. The floor region was seen to contain certain iron stained and weathered zone. No evidence of faulting was observed on the surface of the floor areas. However, there were some isolated patches of soft, weathered/altered rock and small fractures in the rocks. Geotechnical assessment of the foundations of RB-7, RAB-7 and ECCS north and south pits was done on the basis of detailed engineering geological mapping, geological drill holes logging data, rock mass permeability values, geophysical profiling and laboratory test results. This permanent foundation record will assist in making better interpretation of post-construction foundation instrumentation data.
Geological Setup for Gold Prospects and Deposits in India
SKU:
C-165460
Gold metallogeny having distinct temporal distribution has a direct relationship with changes in the global tectonic processes. In India too gold metallogeny is episodic from Mesoarchaean to Neoproterozoic peaking in the Neoarchaean and Paleoproterozoic periods. Indian Phanerozoic also show discrete feeble mineralisation which is not of any economic interest. The most productive gold deposits are restricted to Neoarchaean granite-greenstone terranes of Dharwar Craton. Gold deposits/ prospects occur in the eastern as well as western blocks of the Craton, but most productive deposits are in the Eastern Dharwar Craton. Current gold production in the country is mainly from three Neoarchaean deposits in the Hutti-Maski greenstone belt. A small size Mesoarchaean deposit has been located in Singhbhum Craton also. The gold deposits are generally lode type or vein/reef type restricted to shear zones. Secondary shear zones or splays are the loci for mineralisation of commercial interest. Deformed and metamorphosed host rocks exhibit extensive wall rock alteration along the mineralised zones. The deposits are of epigenetic Au or Au-W types with sulphides.During Palaeo and Mesoproterozoic times, gold mineralization occurred in the Fold Belts/Supracrustal belts of the Singhbhum, Bastar and Bundelkhand cratons, namely Aravalli belt, Mahakoshal belt, Singhbhum belt, Kotri belt, Sonakhan belt, Sakoli and Raigarh belts. The mineralization is of Au-Cu and Cu-Au types with basemetals (Cu & Zn) as a dominant component as compared to the gold-only type during Archaean period. Despite the existence of a number of drilled gold and copper-gold resources spread over the three cratons mentioned above, only one mine is being operated at Lawa in Singhbhum Fold Belt which produces a small quantity of about 13kg of gold per annum (as reported in IBM?s Mineral Year Book).VMS type Cu-Au-U metallogenesis reported from Singhbhum Shear Zone, contributing gold as a by-product of copper mining. VMS type Cu-Au prospects abound in Rajasthan. Neoproterozoic (830-850 Ma) Khetri copper deposits exhibit IOCG type Cu-Au mineralisation where gold is recovered as a by-product. Porphyry style Cu-Au-Mo mineralisation is associated in Malanjkhand granite producing gold as a by-product. Mesoproterozoic Cu-Au-Zn prospects are common in the Sakoli Fold Belt. Gold is also found within the Chhotanagpur Gneissic terrain.Palaeoplacer deposits in Quartz Pebble Conglomerate (QPC) are present in Neoarchaean Iron Ore Group (IOG) of Singhbhum Craton and in Bababudan Group of Dharwar craton. Paleoplacer U-Au occurrences are found at the Neoarchaean-Paleoproterozoic boundary exposed at the basal part of Dhanjori basin in Singhbhum Fold Belt. U-Au bearing palaeoplacers, sampled so far, have shown anomalous to interesting gold valuesGold is also reported from the Tertiary laterite covering parts of the Southern Granulite Terrain and Neoarchean greenstone belts in Goa State. Present day placer gold is being recovered locally from eluvial, alluvial and colluvial zones in different parts of the country.
Geology and Geochemistry of Ultramafic-Mafic Rocks from Antarghatta Belt, Western Dharwar Craton, Karnataka: Implications for PGE Mineralization and Future Targets
SKU:
C-63399
The mafic-ultramafic (MUMF) suite of rocks of Archaean age occur as discontinuous pods north of Arsikere up to south of Vedavathi river in western Dharwar Craton, Karnataka. The mafic-ultramafic enclaves consist of meta-peridotites, tremolite-actinolite schists, serpentinites, amphibolites and metabasalts with gabbro dykes. The rocks have undergone green schist to amphibolites facies metamorphism. Our studies have shown nodular and ocellar, pillows, jack straw textures in these ultramafic-mafic suite (the talc-serpentine rocks). Talc-serpentine and tremolite-actinolite schists contain chromite and titanomagnetite concentrated at the grain boundaries. The overall major element composition of these rocks shows a high MgO (22-40 %) and total iron (8-10 %) contents and some samples also exhibit komatiitic affinity. The distribution of chromite grains in amphibole and associated matrix is also noticed. High contents of Ni and Cr (∼3000, 2800 ppm) were obtained in some of these rocks. The REE data show slightly fractionated patterns with enriched LREE (LREE/HREE ∼5.0) and negative europium anomalies. The reported Pt and Pd values are 6500 and 190 ppb. The element relationships indicate that different types of hydrothermal fluids re-distributed Ni, Cu, and (Pt+Pd) in different ways, which may have led to local concentration of Pt and Pd. The overall geochemical data and (Pt+Pd) contents imply that, at Antarghatta ultramafic belt, different genetic types of (Pt+Pd) enrichment processes were active. (1) Small amounts of immiscible sulphide melt collected relatively high amounts of PGE (relatively high (Pt+Pd) at low Ni and Cu contents) and represent a low sulphur type silicate PGE mineralization, but no major sulphide liquation event may have happened that would lead to a potential economic mineralization. (2) A hydrothermal Ni-enrichment trend (at low Cu) is reflected by the presence of millerite, which enriches the rocks beyond the Ni in the silicate minerals and the slightly higher values of Ni where elevated chromium values occur. (3) Where Cu (at low Ni contents) gets enriched by fluids, often (Pt+Pd) is enriched as well. Thus, the Antarghatta ultramafic belt warrants a multi-disciplinary approach to understand the critical parameters and processes involved in the genesis of Ni-Cu-(PGE) associated with these komatiites.
Geomicrobiology of Arsenic (As) Contaminated Groundwater of West Bengal Reveals Microbial Role in Sediment Bound Arsenic Mobilization
SKU:
C-165856
Geogenic arsenic (As) in groundwater of the Bengal basin has led to ?the worst mass poisoning in human history? with >170 million people exposed to toxic levels of As. Understanding the mechanism(s) underlying As release into groundwater from host minerals is a critical issue for developing any sustainable drinking water supply strategy. Release of As results from complex interplay between hydro-geo-microbiological processes. The present study aims at analyze microbial community structure, dynamics, and metabolic role using groundwater sampled from two As hotspots of West Bengal (Barasat and Swarupnagar). Metagenomic DNA based 16S rRNA gene (V4 region targeted) sequencing showed dominance of Gammaproteobacteria and Alphaproteobacteria. Incubation of groundwater microbiome with aquifer sediment showed a marked shift in community composition with an abundance of Rhizobium, Paenibacillus, Acinetobacter, and Staphylococcus reportedly known for anaerobic hydrocarbon utilization, iron reduction, As biotransformation, and fermentation abilities. Change in physicochemical properties indicated microbe-mediated geochemical transformations. Thus, the study highlighted the role of groundwater microbial community members in facilitating the mobilization of sediment-bound As.
Geomorphic Characterization of the Banni Plain, Kachchh, Using Orbital Imaging Radar (RISAT 1C) and Optical Remote Sensing Data
SKU:
C-105419
The present study employs multisensor remote sensing approach for delineating the morphological intricacies of the Banni plain, a hyper arid saline terrain, generally referred to as 'flat'. The Banni plain is a part of the Great Rann basin and is the culmination of shallow marine sedimentation during the Holocene. Owing to the variable submergence characteristics, the Banni plain displays geomorphological characteristics that are unique and distinctly different from the rest of the terrain of the Great Rann. The RISAT SAR data of the Banni plain used in the present study was acquired in the month of August, 2012, i.e. during the monsoon season when large parts of the Banni plain are normally submerged, waterlogged or saturated with rain water. The inundation is found to be a key factor, in the backscatter of radar waves in the available SAR data which is exploited in the present study to interpret landscape characteristics of the Banni plain. Backscatter from non-inundated sites is relatively high and for areas with water table at the surface is intermediate and inundated areas, it is low. Geomorphological interpretation is done by combining SAR data, LANDSAT ETM + images and Google earth data. The present study concludes that structurally controlled variations in the elevations in different parts of the Banni plain is the prime factor influencing the submergence pattern which in turn controls the moisture distribution and soil type. Since Banni Plain is characterized by very gentle slope and scanty vegetation, we also infer that the variations in the backscattering in the SAR data of the Banni plain are a reflection of the variation of moisture content in soils.
Geomorphology of North-Western India (Marusthali to Narmada Valley Ending Up with Vindhyan Scarplands) with Special Reference to Surface Waters
SKU:
C-62870
Resource potential in space and time is dependent upon the hydro-geomorphic dynamics that include topography, precipitation and lithology. Regional geo-climatic conditions control the distribution and availability of water resources and their development requires a scientific evaluation of potential and terrain appropriate structures. In this context, the northwestern region of the Indian subcontinent has diverse geomorphologic characteristics ensuring a wide disparity in the distribution of surface water resource. The rivers are seasonal and the flow is dependent on the rainfall which varies from less than 100 mm in the arid land to more than 1000 mm in the eastern hilly areas. Based on the variations in these parameters, the area is divided into five hydro-geomorphic units 1) Dunal Plains of Thar, 2) Semi-arid to Arid Alluvial Plains, 3) The Eastern Hill Ranges, 4) The Plateau and Pediments (buried/exposed) and 5) Coastal Plains. The major issues in harnessing the surface water include seepage/evaporation losses in the plains and excessive runoff due to steep slopes and hard rock lithology in the hilly areas. Unavailability of water in the downstream due to damming of rivers, changing land use and obliteration of drains in the catchment of ponds are some human induced major issues in this region. Ample groundwater resource and advent of tube wells led to neglect of the existing water harvesting structures as well as surface water bodies, but now, the ground water is fast depleting. There is good surface water potential at least in parts of the region, but its rejuvenation needs impetus. The water availability and security can be improved adopting a basin perspective provided the resource is managed in a holistic and integrated manner at this level.
Geomorphology of the North Eastern Region of India with Special Reference to Surface Water Resources
SKU:
C-62879
The North Eastern Region represents a unique geophysical and ecological setup vis-a-vis the eastern Himalayas dominated by extremely dynamic earth processes, intensely potent monsoon rainfall regime, hyperactive seismicity and a fabulously rich biological and cultural diversity. The region is richly endowed with a vast water resource potential accounting for about one-third of the country's total water wealth although its utilization has so far been grossly limited. The Brahmaputra, a transboundary river originating in Tibet (China) and one of the world's largest and most complex alluvial river systems, drains a major part of the region. The Barak is another dominant river system flowing in the southern part of the region that eventually flows across the border to Bangladesh. The floodplains of these rivers are dotted with a large number of wetlands (locally known as Beels) that have considerable ecological, hydrological as well as economic significance. However, most of these wetlands are in degraded or derelict condition due to accelerated sedimentation, eutrophication, encroachment and various other anthropogenic factors. The study discusses different aspects of fluvial geomorphology in relation to the geologic and geotectonic frameworks of the region. An integrated basin planning and management approach seems to be the most appropriate paradigm for utilizing the vast water wealth of the region and mitigating its associated hazards. The geologic/geomorphic ideas and techniques are increasingly known to have great relevance in the management and conservation of rivers and other water bodies like wetlands, especially in the context of North East India.
Geotechnical Problems Associated with Infrastructure Development Activity in the Himalayas
SKU:
C-95901
There are several issues associated with infrastructure development in the Himalayas; they fall under diverse categories like administrative, socio-economic, environmental, and techno-geological. The techno-geological issues which are of immediate concern to us are generally referred to as 'Geological Uncertainties' in engineering parlance. They are, generally, due to insufficient budget allocation for quality geological surveys, and unavailability of manpower appropriately trained in geological engineering field. Many hydropower projects have been and are to be constructed in the area to harness the hydropower potential of the rivers and their tributaries. These major infrastructure projects lead to development of ancillary industries, communication routes, transportation, tourism and other development works in the area. Serious consequences may result from inadequate or incompetent geotechnical investigations. This paper outlines the geotechnical problems and related issues associated with these developmental projects and to collate the basic information inputs for identifying the problems in future and addressing their solutions.
Glimpses of Surface Water Scenario in Some Eastern and North Eastern States in India
SKU:
C-165846
The Ganga and the Brahmaputra river system constitute the major river network draining a vast alluvial terrain in eastern and north-eastern sector of India. The Ganga?Brahmaputra?Meghna river system is carrying 1375 BCM water annually. However, distribution of water in these rivers are uneven, bulk of which are available only during four monsoon months of a year. In the remaining eight months the water flow is reduced to its one?sixth amount. A number of Major and Medium Command Area Projects have been implemented. But there are possibilities to harness many more for optimum utilization of available water resources in this part of the country. A number of critical issues like Command Area Management, Resettlement and Rehabilitation of displaced Communities, Flood Management, Drought Management specially in Chotonagpur Plateau areas, Desilting of existing canals, Quality deterioration of river waters await solution.In order to have optimal and rational utilization of available water resources in this part of the country, a number of recommendations have been made.
Gold in Dharwar Craton: Current Genetic Understanding
SKU:
C-165461
Neoarchean orogenic gold-only deposits in the Dharwar Craton occur in wide variety of host rocks such as metamorphosed mafic/felsic greenstones, banded iron formations, volcaniclastic rocks and granitoids. The characteristic features of these deposits are (i) greenschist to mid-amphibolite facies conditions of metamorphism; (ii) alteration and mineralization in shear-induced higher order structural splays, and (iii) low salinity aqueous-gaseous (H2O+CO2?CH4+NaCl) fluids that precipitated gold in a narrow P-T window of 0.7-2.5 kbar and 215-320 ?C. There are also reports of uncharacteristic high salinity granitic fluids from surface samples of Ramagiri. Further, propositions favoring mantle- and granite-derived fluids have been made from the calculated fluid ?18O-?D and ?13C values of quartz and calcites. Major, trace element and B-isotope composition of tourmaline, on the other hand, suggest metamorphic ore fluids, with minor magmatic involvement. Similarly, composition of scheelite, pyrite and arsenopyrite from the ore zones suggest operation of fault-valves resulting in fluid phase separation, that acted as the dominant process of gold precipitation, besides fluid-rock sulfidation reactions. Available ages of greenstone metamorphism, granitic activity and mineralization in the Hutti Belt are almost identical, making a geochronology-based resolution of the existing debate on the metamorphic vs. magmatic fluid source impossible. On the other hand, consistently observed low salinity nature of the ore fluid points to its unlikely extraction from granites, emplaced at mid to upper crust. On the contrary, fluids released by metamorphism of pyritic carbonaceous shales at the greenschist-amphibolite facies boundary are characteristically of low salinity and have elevated concentrations of S, Au and As, necessary to form orogenic gold deposits.
Gold Resources of India: Immense Scope for Development of New Gold Mines
SKU:
C-165466
The geological potential of India to host gold resources is globally well known but exploration to realise the potential is grossly inadequate. This paper is an attempt to take stock of India?s Resource-Base (Reserves + Resources) of gold and it?s potential to support development of new gold mines in the near future. More than 700 ancient workings and about 200 gold prospects are spread over 12 States in the country. The Mineral Inventory by Indian Bureau of Mines indicates a resource of 654.74 tonnes of gold metal as on 1.4.2015. As per the compilation made by the author the Resource Base in the country, as at the end of March 2019, is 670 tonnes plus a Prognosticated Resource of 198 tonnes of gold metal. The annual mine production of gold is in the range of 2-3 tonnes in the last decade. Only one major gold mine located at Hutti in Raichur District of Karnataka and two of its satellite mines are in continuous operation. India is a major consumer/importer of gold to sustain its huge jewellery industry. The drain on foreign exchange reserve is to the tune of 40 billion US$ annually to import about 800t of gold. Almost all the gold occurrences, prospects and deposits in India are sited in greenstone-belts, Mesoproterozoic fold-belts and, to a minor extent, in Mesoproterozoic Sedimentary Basins. An attempt has been made in this review to present State-wise, geological belt-wise and Prospect-wise Resources and Reserves. Apart from the few prospects which have been adequately investigated, hundreds of prospects and gold occurrences spread over the country await detailed exploration involving investment of thousands of crores of rupees for defining and/or augmenting the resources and converting the known resources into mineable reserves through feasibility studies. At Rs.4000 per gram, many among the 200 known gold prospects in the country could be developed as small operations under MSME model with distinct possibility of several of them eventually developing into largescale operations like at KGF and Hutti.The recent reforms in the Policy and amendments to the Act are inadequate in so far as mineral exploration is concerned specifically precious metals. Fast-tracked implementation of the Act & Rules has been the need since decades to enable investors to freely and effectively operationalise their planned programmes of exploration and mining. Gold Exploration and Mining deserves to be dealt with under a separate National Authority-Precious Metals Authority of India (PMAI)), on par with Coal, Steel & Hydrocarbon because of huge domestic demand for gold of the order of 800 to 1000 tonnes per annum and the important role gold plays in the economy of India. PMAI would serve to facilitate and focus private investment, including FDI and, for fast tracking the currently stagnating exploration and development of new gold mines in the country.
Ground Water Based Irrigation in the State of Odisha: The Way Forward
SKU:
C-164716
Ground water, as a source of irrigation in the state of Odisha has been studied. As on 31sta March 2013, the state possesses net annual utilizable groundwater resource of 16.69 BCM. Net groundwater draft is 5.02 BCM, yielding a stage of groundwater development of 30% in the state, which is too less in comparison to the national average of 62%. The irrigation draft stands at 4.14 bcm, constituting 82.5% of the net groundwater withdrawn. Estimations reveal that groundwater, as a source of irrigation in the state accounts for only 13.0%, in contrast to more than 50% in major parts of India. The hard rock (?90% of the state area) and the coastal regions share ?54% (2.25 bcm) and 46% (1.89 bcm) of the net groundwater draft for irrigation in the state. The stage of groundwater development in the hard rock region is low at 23.9% and in the coastal tract it is moderate at 46.5%. In the phreatic aquifer, an additional of 11.20 bcm of resource (hard rock region, 8.87 bcm; coastal region, 2.33 bcm) is still available for future irrigation. Additional dug wells and shallow tube wells in the phreatic zone can be constructed to harness the resource. Water conservation measures like nala bunds, check dams etc on the small and minor drainages and also creation of ponds and tanks in the hard rock region will help in generating more groundwater resource for exploitation. Besides, deep tube wells at suitable locations can yield ample water for irrigation. However, in the hard rock region, owing to limited groundwater potential of aquifers, groundwater irrigation is more suited for low water intensive crops particularly in the rabi seasons.
Ground Water Conservation and Artificial Recharge in Madhya Pradesh: A Pragmatic Approach
Conference Papers, SP-12: Water Resources of Western and Central Regions of India: Status, Issues and Strategies
SKU:
C-168762
The increasing pace of ground water extraction in agricultural, industrial and domestic sectors during the past four decades has led to problems of continuously declining ground water levels and deterioration of groundwater quality in many areas of Madhya Pradesh. This has threatened the sustainability of many dug wells and tube wells. Depending heavily on agriculture-based economy, the State requires assured irrigation for sustainable agricultural productivity. Groundwater is the major source of irrigation, and also the sole source of drinking water. But the development of ground water is constrained due to heterogeneity of the formations, non-uniformity in degree and nature of the weathered and fractured zones of the aquifers. It is observed that there is heavy surface run-off in many areas during the monsoon period often resulting in floods, yet these very same areas face crisis of water during the summer. This flood? drought syndrome is basically resultant of improper management of available water resources. As ground water is an annually replenishable but limited resource, augmentation of the recharge to ground water is the only option left for ensuring its sustainability.The present study is aimed at identifying the areas in Madhya Pradesh suitable for artificial recharge to arrest the depletion of ground water resources on the one hand and create additional resources to cater to the domestic, agricultural and industrial needs in the State.
Ground Water Management, Sustainability and Equity
SKU:
C-95942
Due to the ever-increasing demand for potable and irrigation water, the stress on groundwater is increasing day by day, one of the major factors being rising demand in the irrigation sector of India. This has created severe stress on the available water resource necessitating judicious distribution of the resource and greater water use efficiency. The overall stage of ground water development of our country has already touched 62% as per 2011 estimations. Out of 6607 assessment units (Blocks/ Mandals/talukas/Firkas), 1071 units in various states are overexploited. This statistics points to the urgent need for water management to render it sustainable (Robert W. Kates et al., 2003). It calls for scientific information and management principles considering the social, environmental, legal and economic concerns. The management of ground water as an integral part of the hydrological cycle needs wise beneficial and efficient use including fair allocation, equitable access and monitoring from human, environmental and ecological needs.
Ground Water Quality of Rajasthan with Special Reference to Fluoride
Conference Papers, SP-12: Water Resources of Western and Central Regions of India: Status, Issues and Strategies
SKU:
C-168760
Among the challenges faced by the world today in the area of health care, water is the greatest challenge, and this is particularly true for the developing countries. A large proportion of the world?s population relies on ground water as primary source for drinking and domestic use. In recent years, due to increase of population, urbanization, industrialization, use of chemical fertilizers, pesticide in agriculture, there is over increasing threat to surface and ground water quality. The indiscriminate use of ground water for irrigation and other purposes has resulted in sharp decline in ground water table and in changes in the natural geochemistry of ground water. In the largest areal state of the country i.e. Rajasthan higher concentration of all the three hydrochemical parameters viz. salinity, nitrate and fluoride in ground waters have adversely affected the lives of people in general and their socio-economic status in particular. Ground water of western, north-eastern parts of Rajasthan are facing problem of salinity, nitrate and fluoride, whereas central and southern parts are generally facing an acute problem of fluoride. Therefore, immediate action for mitigating the problems at government, semi-government or social levels are required for the welfare of countrymen.
Ground Water Resources and Development Prospect in the State of Arunachal Pradesh, India
SKU:
C-165842
The state of Arunachal Pradesh covering an area of 83,743 sq. km receives an average rainfall of 3000 mm. It is blessed with favorable natural geo-climatic conditions and resources with rich biodiversity, lush green forest. The state has immense potential to harness hydropower as a major chunk of Brahmaputra basin lies within its territory. In spite of abundant surface water resource in the state, there is acute shortage of water during summer as major part of the rainfall is lost as surface run-off. The Annual extractable Groundwater recharge is 2.667 BCM which should be judiciously utilized in different fields for all round socio-economic upliftment. Hence, a scientific and sustainable approach is required to manage the water resource in the coming years for the overall development of the State and its people.
Ground Water Resources of Chhattisgarh: Resource Potential, Status, Management Issues and Future Strategies
Conference Papers, SP-12: Water Resources of Western and Central Regions of India: Status, Issues and Strategies
SKU:
C-168764
The Ground Water Resources play an important role in agro-economy of the Chhattisgarh State being heavily dependent on rain?fed agriculture. The Ground water resources are controlled by normal monsoon rainfall of 1201 mm with four aquifer systems, viz a) Sandstone aquifers, b) Limestone aquifers, c) Crystalline aquifers comprising granites, gneisses schists, ultrabasics and basalts of Archean, Proterozoic and Cenozoic age respectively forming discontinuous, unconfined and semi-confined aquifers, and d). Alluvial aquifers comprising alluvium, clays, silts, laterites etc. forming thin and extensive unconfined aquifers in several isolated patches and near major river courses. These are unconsolidated formations of Quaternary age. During pre-monsoon period in the 70% area of the state groundwater level remains under 5 to 10m, 21% under 10 ? 20 m and less than 1% under more than 20 mbgl. In the Post-monsoon period, 71% area shows the groundwater level in the range of 2 to 5 m, 24% area, 5 to 10m and 2% more than 10 m bgl. In general, 23% wells show rise in the range of 0-2m, 35 % 2-4 m and 42%, > 4 m in response to rainfall. Ground water quality is bicarbonate type and suitable for all purposes. Isolated patches of Arsenic, Sulphate, Fluoride and NO3 contamination have also been reported. Ground water meets 84.5 % and 14.5 % of total irrigation and drinking water requirements respectively. The annual ground water recharge has been estimated as 11,579 MCM. The existing ground water extraction for all uses is 4691MCM. Out of 146 blocks, 41 blocks have Stage of Ground Water Extraction < 30 %, 46 blocks, between 30 to 50%, 35 blocks within 50 and 70 % and 24 blocks have > 70%. The groundwater utilization over the years has increased drastically from 5.11 % in 1990 to 44.37% in the year 2017.The immediate attention is needed on (a) Creation of additional Irrigation potential, (b) Supply of contaminant free water through alternate source, (c) Promotion of rainwater harvesting and sartificial recharge with community participation,. (d) Regulation of overuse of ground water and (e) Sensitizing Farmers through incentivizing water efficient irrigation techniques.
Ground Water Resources of Eastern and North Eastern States of India
SKU:
C-165838
The states in the Eastern and North Eastern region together having an area of 20.7% of India sustain 26.11% of the population of the country. The annual rain fall of the region is well above the average for India.The Region has some of the most prolific alluvial aquifers. Mostly, water level remains at shallow depths throughout the year barring the hilly areas. Water quality in most parts is suitable for all uses, except certain areas where some constituents exceed the permissible limit for drinking water, and some patches with brackish to saline water. Ground water development has not been at the desired level in the region in sharp contrast to other parts of the country and there is sufficient scope for future development. In the region, highest stage of ground water development is 45% in Bihar and West Bengal followed by 30% in Odisha, 23% in Jharkhand and 16% in Assam. The stage of development in other states is negligible. Judicious and optimal use of the huge reserve of available groundwater resource can bring about sizable improvements in the economy of the region, which is basically agrarian.
Ground Water Resources of Gujarat: Status of Development, Management Strategy and Policy
Conference Papers, SP-12: Water Resources of Western and Central Regions of India: Status, Issues and Strategies
SKU:
C-168771
Gujarat State is located in the western part of India, it is well known for entrepreneurship of its peoples. Water resources in the state are very much unevenly distributed. There are very high rainfall areas in the southern part of state, whereas the northern and western parts face desert like climate. Hydrogeologically there are diverse aquifer systems. Some form prolific aquifer system like alluvial formations of North and Central Gujarat plains. There are also hard rock formations like Granites, Deccan Basalts which form poor aquifers. Due to frequent and persistent droughts water resources management has been a challenge in northern and western parts of the state. Total annual availability of water in the state is estimated at 51 BCM/ out of which surface water contribution is 38 BCM, whereas groundwater accounts for 13.58 BCM. The groundwater plays a very important role in agriculture as well as water supply in this drought prone state. The total annual Groundwater Recharge has been assessed as 22.37bcm and Annual Extractable Ground Water Resources as 21.25bcm. The Annual Ground Water extraction has been assessed as 13.58bcm and Stage of Ground Water extraction as 64%. There are 248 assessment units (talukas) out of which 25 Talukas have been categorized as ?Over- exploited?, 5 are ?Critical?, 11 are ?Semi-Critical?,194 as ?Safe? and 13 saline talukas in the state. A well-planned strategy is required for management of water resources in the state. Number of water conservation and augmentation measures have been taken up in the state in the form of Sujalam Suflam Yojna, Sauni Yojna, Participatory irrigation management, ATAL-JAL, Hydrology Project, Interlinking of Rivers to name a few. Further steps suggested for conservation and sustainable use of ground water can be augmentation of groundwater resources through Artificial Recharge, revival of ponds, reuse and recycling of wastewater, protection of water sources from pollution, conjunctive use of surface and ground water, etc
Ground Water Resources of Jharkhand State and its Development Perspective
SKU:
C-165847
Jharkhand State covering an area of 79714 sq. kms have three major hydrogeological formations consisting of Fissured formation, Semi-Consolidated formation and Porous formation. About 90 percent of area is covered by hard rock (fissured) formation. Chotanagpur Granite gneissic complex consisting of Granite, Granite gneisses, Schists, Phyllites are the major rock formations while Vindhyans, Rajmahal basalts, Laterites, Tertiaries and Alluvium are the minor formations. Exploratory drilling in fissured formation and Rajmahal basalt has revealed that majority of the fractures occur within 130 m bgl. Well discharge in these formations varies, - 10-51 m3/hrs in Rajmahal basalt, 1.5-80 m3/hr in Granite gneisses and 3.6-5 m3/hr in Gondwana formations. As per Ground Water Resources Assessment 2017, the total annual ground water (GW) recharge has been assessed as 6.21 bcm and annual extractable GW Resources is 5.69 bcm. The annual GW extraction is 1.58 bcm and the Stage of GW extraction is 28%. Out of 260 blocks in Jharkhand State, 3 blocks have been categorised as Over-Exploited, 2 as Critical, 10 as Semi-Critical and 245 as Safe. There are no saline blocks in the State. The major ground water issues in Jharkhand State are the areas of intensive Coal, Copper and Uranium mining through which huge volume of ground water is being wasted. Low yield potential in hard rock terrain is another ground water issue. Fluoride contamination has also been observed in 60 blocks in 12 districts.
Ground Water Resources of Kerala: Prospects and Development Strategies
SKU:
C-165440
As per 2011 census, about 62% of the population of Kerala depend on ground water from dug wells and bore wells/ tube wells as drinking water source. Majority of these dug wells gets dried -up during the summer months, causing seasonal water scarcity which affects public water supply. The increasing demand of water year after year has also resulted in pressure on the aquifer systems in the state. Hence, estimation of ground water resource is an important exercise towards the scientific management. Judicious and planned development of ground water has become necessary to ensure its long-term sustainability. This requires scientific estimation of the availability of this resource and the current status of its utilization. In practice, it is periodically assessed and refined based on the approved methodology and as per the updated data inputs. The National Water Policy (NWP) of Government of India also insists periodical assessment of the ground water resources on a scientific basis taking into consideration all the components related to development and management of the ground water resources in any given terrain/area. In this paper, the summary of ground water resources of Kerala, estimated jointly by Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) and State Ground Water Department (SGWD) as on 2009, 2011, 2013, 2017 is presented and a comparison of the changed scenario during these estimates are discussed. All possible criteria have been considered to assess various components of the ground water resources as realistically as possible based on the data available and the data provided by various agencies. As per the computations, there is a steady increase the number of semi-critical blocks during the period from 2009 to 2017. Correspondingly, the number of safe blocks is decreasing during the same period. Further, the area irrigated from ground water sources has shown a whopping increase from 2012 hectares during 1960-61 to 122478 hectares during 2016-17 which shows remarkable dependence of ground water for irrigation. The net annual ground water availability is steadily decreasing during the last decade and the stage of ground water development/extraction has touched to 50 percent as per the 2017 estimates. The exercise of ground water resource estimation is expected to provide an insight to proceed further in developing this natural resource on a sound scientific background in the state. Water managers and planners need to look widely for the optimal ways to improve water management and water supplies for sustainability.
Ground Water Resources of North-Eastern States with Special Reference to Sikkim
SKU:
C-165840
Although India?s Northeast is rich in natural resources, but in terms of development the region lags behind the rest of the country. The Region is characterized by great environmental and natural resource diversity. It consists of eight states ? Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura - occupying 262,179 sq. km. It is home to more than 200 out of 450 of India?s tribes. Due to the prevailing geomorphological and agro-climatic conditions in the region, groundwater has a key role in meeting the water needs even in the midst of abundance of rainfall and surface water. The catchment area is hilly with high slope with the result that a major part of the rainfall is lost as surface run off. Apart from this, numerous streams, small rivers, nullas and springs also act as carriers of ground water. Hence, for augmenting the ground water resources of the region to promote all round development, the prospects of development of springs, roof top rainwater harvesting, and construction of shallow tube wells across the region have been discussed in this paper in the light of changing social and economic fabric of the region, and the outlook on development challenges.
Ground Water Resources of Western Region of India
Conference Papers, SP-12: Water Resources of Western and Central Regions of India: Status, Issues and Strategies
SKU:
C-168750
In western India, the states Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Rajasthan having area of 0.11%, 5.97%, 9.36% and 10.41% of India respectively have 0.24%, 6.83%, 13.48% and 4.52% of the total population of the country. The area, except Goa which records high precipitation, receives moderate rainfall. Arid conditions prevail in north Gujarat and major part of Rajasthan. The utilization pattern of ground water is uneven across the region resulting in ground water stressed conditions and over exploitation in some parts, particularly the arid regions and sub-optimal ground water utilization in others. Water level varies widely being very shallow in the southern part and deep to alarmingly deep in the northern part, having deepest water level of the country in Bikaner district of Rajasthan. Water quality is of concern in the major parts. In considerable areas, some chemical constituents exceed the permissible limit for drinking water, and large patches with brackish to saline water are encountered in Rajasthan and Gujarat. Sporadic occurrences of Fluoride and Nitrate in ground water exceeding the permissible limit for drinking water are spread almost throughout the region which necessitates cautious use of ground water in these areas for drinking purposes. The stage of ground water development is 37%, 68% and 54% in Goa, Gujarat and Maharashtra respectively. In Rajasthan, the stage of ground water development is 140% and 164 out of 248 ground water assessment units are overexploited and 23 ground water assessment units in Gujarat are over exploited. This requires immediate judicious intervention without which some areas will not be able to meet even the drinking water needs. Groundwater withdrawal requires to be strictly regulated so that it does not exceed the annual recharge and also that it does not disturb the hydro-chemical balance. Alarming declines in groundwater levels warrant immediate attention for taking-up of recharge schemes to arrest further decline and augment the groundwater resources. In areas of scanty recharge, ground water should be allowed only for drinking water purposes. In other areas, along with water conservation and ground water augmentation measures, demand side management using micro irrigation techniques and change of cropping pattern etc should be religiously adopted.
Ground Water Scenario of Meghalaya State: Prospective Areas for Development
SKU:
C-165843
Meghalaya state is basically a hilly terrain with intermontane valleys and tablelands located in Northeastern part of India and lying between latitudes 25?05? and 26?10?N, and longitudes 89?47? and 92?47?E. Major portion of the state is underlain by consolidated formations comprising crystalline, impervious igneous and metamorphic rocks. Ground water in the area is primarily controlled by lithology, structure and physiography. Joints, fractures, fissures of the hard rocks are repository of ground water at depths ranging from 50m to 240m. Dynamic ground water resource of the state as estimated by CGWB (2017) is 1.82 billion cubic meter (BCM) and the annual ground water available is 1.64 billion cubic meter (BCM). The annual ground water extraction is 0.04 billion cubic meter (BCM) and the stage of development is 2.28% against the national average of 63%. All the 11 districts of the state have been categorised as ?safe?. Tribal population is accustomed to use surface water as traditional and conventional source of water supply for domestic purpose. Moreover, they prefer to fetch water from the springs located 2 to 5 km away instead of getting bore well water at door step. Hence participation of tribal community alongwith stakeholders in ground water programmes will create greater awareness. Ground water irrigation is almost absent. The paper deals with the ground water scenario of the state with special reference to prospective areas for sustainable ground water development and management.
Groundwater Development and Management in Maharashtra State, India
Conference Papers, SP-12: Water Resources of Western and Central Regions of India: Status, Issues and Strategies
SKU:
C-168753
Maharashtra is one of the largest states of the country and playing a vital role in the India?s economy through its agricultural and industrial growth. Agriculture is the most predominant occupation in the state and is dependent mainly on ground water irrigation. However, specific focus is being given for the demand side intervention rather than supply side interventions for management of limited ground water resources that available in the state, as the 92% of the state is underlain by hard rocks bearing limited yield potential. The rainfall is the sole source of natural recharge to aquifers and the rainy season extends for three months with barely 55 to 60 rainy days. This is the period during which aquifers get replenished and during the remaining part of this water is utilized for agriculture, domestic and industrial uses. Highest rainfall is received in the coastal areas which have very high runoff rate, whereas remaining part of the state receives rainfall varying from <400mm to 1500 mm per year. A concept plan to recharge the aquifers has been prepared, and details of the artificial recharge structures suitable for the varying geological and topographical setups have been suggested. Besides, micro irrigation techniques are also suggested for water intensive crops to regulate the ground water draft.
Groundwater Potential of Bihar: An Insight into its Sustainable Development and Management
SKU:
C-165848
The state of Bihar, an agrarian state, is bestowed with a vast, fertile alluvial tract and abundant water resources which hold key to its economic development. This annually replenishable natural resource is beset with several management problems. The surface water irrigation projects are unable to provide adequate supply of water to the farmers and have also caused water logging and salinity problems. Further, variations in precipitation in time and space have often led to drought-flood syndrome creating water crisis. Consequently, ubiquitous occurrence, immunity from drought for two or three consecutive water-years and the relative ease of decentralized access have all led to groundwater being the backbone of agriculture and drinking water in the state. Hydrogeological and geophysical surveys have enabled delineation of ground water occurrences, and their development potentials. Hydro-chemical studies have revealed sporadic arsenic contamination in shallow aquifers along the banks of the River Ganga and fluoride contamination in the hard rock areas in parts of South Bihar. This paper presents elaborately an account of shallow as well as deeper aquifers, their potential in the state along with the possibility of sustainable development and management of the aquifers.