Title: Micro level groundwater flow and transport model to predict future spread of pollution for Ambur sub-basin, Tamil Nadu, India

Authors: C.G. Hemamalini; M. Krishnaveni

Addresses: Department of Civil Engineering, Sri Venkateswara College of Engineering, Pennalur, Sriperumbudur 602105, Tamil Nadu, India ' Center for Water Resources, Department of Civil Engineering, Anna University, Chennai 600025, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract: Realistic groundwater flow and transport models have greater use in understanding, predicting and managing groundwater systems in water-scarce and polluted areas. In this study, micro-level flow and transport models were developed, using the Visual MODFLOW software, for the highly polluted Ambur sub-basin, Tamil Nadu for the purpose of predicting pollution migration in the next 50 years and providing site-specific insight for remediation action. The study covered 70 villages over the period 2009-2011. The simulation results revealed that in a few villages, the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) levels increased by 100% to 200% over a 50-year period. Recommendations were made for pollution dilution through water recharge structures and for carrying out further simulation exercises on remediation impact. The model predictions provide a framework to researchers for carrying out similar groundwater modelling exercises for all types of groundwater polluted areas and river basins for the purpose of predictions and preventive remediation actions.

Keywords: micro level groundwater; transport modelling; Visual MODFLOW; pollution prediction; TDS; total dissolved solids; groundwater flow; water pollution; India; simulation; water recharge; remediation impact.

DOI: 10.1504/IJW.2013.054876

International Journal of Water, 2013 Vol.7 No.3, pp.223 - 239

Received: 18 Jun 2012
Accepted: 24 Jul 2012
Published online: 21 Oct 2014 *

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