Title: Investigating the monthly effect of the pumping schedule on the groundwater resources in Al-Najaf City, Iraq

Authors: Hayder H. Kareem

Addresses: Structures and Water Resources Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, University of Kufa, Al-Najaf, Iraq

Abstract: Groundwater serves as a crucial resource, especially in regions like the Middle East, where water scarcity prevails, particularly in arid areas. Uncertainty in groundwater systems arises due to aquifer parameters, climate change effects on recharge, and pumping rates. This study, utilising the MODFLOW computer model, examines the 2014 groundwater status near Al-Najaf City in Iraq, focusing on recharge, pumping rates, and Euphrates River levels monthly. The model integrates geological data, digital elevation models, and field measurements. Calibration reveals good agreement with field data, while sensitivity analysis highlights the significance of recharge and hydraulic conductivity. Validation displays a west-to-east flow pattern. Results indicate excessive pumping creates dry zones in the city, impacting both top and bottom layers. The Euphrates River consistently loses water due to pumping. This research offers valuable insights for sustainable management of the Euphrates River-groundwater system in Al-Najaf City, crucial for effective planning and resource management.

Keywords: Al-Najaf City; conceptual modelling; Euphrates River-groundwater system connection; MODFLOW; Iraq.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEWM.2025.147928

International Journal of Environment and Waste Management, 2025 Vol.37 No.4, pp.472 - 497

Received: 17 Jun 2023
Accepted: 07 Oct 2023
Published online: 11 Aug 2025 *

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