Geophysical insights into aquifer characteristics of the Tanakpur area in Champawat district, Uttarakhand, India

Abstract

Proper demarcation of aquifers in hard rock areas is a challenging task, and geophysical surveys have been effective in deciphering the aquifers. Vertical Electrical Soundings (VES) were carried out in the Tanakpur area of Champawat district, Uttarakhand state. The depth and thickness of aquifers were inferred by interpretation of VES curves using manual and computer-based interpretation methods. The study area, which comprises of massive granite gneiss, shows geological heterogeneity throughout. The aquifer thickness in the study area varies from 13.12 to 118.65 m with an average value of 52.12 m. Out of 17 locations, groundwater promising zones have been found in 14 locations. An examination of this aquifer resistivity map reveals that aquifer resistivity value varies from 42.34 to 187.04 Ω-m with an average value 111.65 Ω-m in the study area. The results of interpretation are used to put in order the litho-resistivity cross sections crossways the study area for the surface and subsurface geologic information. This study focuses on how lateral and vertical changes in aquifer geometry are influenced by the lithology and structural features characteristic of the Himalayan foothills. The findings can help with local groundwater resource assessment and management by providing a baseline understanding of groundwater occurrence in the Tanakpur area.