GIS-Based Assessment for the Development of a Groundwater Quality Index Towards Sustainable Aquifer Management

This study aims at developing Groundwater Quality Indices (GQIs) that constitute a reliable tool in defining aquifer vulnerability. For this purpose, water quality sampling campaigns were conducted on 60 groundwater wells during most vulnerable periods of early and late summer to ensure the representativeness of the targeted GQI under worst case conditions. The samples were tested for various water quality indicators, which were then used to develop the GQIs through GIS-based mapping with spatial geostatistical analysis. The results contribute in filling a gap in GQI definition and form a basis for planning effective water quality management towards sustainable exploitation of groundwater resources particularly during summer periods when recharge is limited.