Assessment of groundwater quality in urban areas using GIS and remote sensing techniques

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Groundwater quality is a critical aspect of environmental management, particularly in urban areas where population growth and industrial activities can lead to contamination. This thesis focuses on the assessment of groundwater quality in urban areas using Geographic Information System (GIS) and remote sensing techniques. The study aims to develop a comprehensive understanding of the spatial distribution and quality of groundwater resources to support sustainable water resource management practices. The research begins with an introduction to the importance of groundwater quality assessment in urban areas, highlighting the potential risks associated with contamination. A background of the study provides a context for understanding the significance of the research topic, emphasizing the need for innovative approaches to monitor and manage groundwater resources effectively. The problem statement identifies the gaps in current groundwater quality assessment methods and underscores the urgency of adopting advanced technologies like GIS and remote sensing. The objectives of the study are outlined to guide the research process, including the development of a spatial database for groundwater quality assessment, the identification of potential sources of contamination, and the evaluation of the effectiveness of GIS and remote sensing techniques in mapping groundwater quality parameters. The limitations of the study are acknowledged, such as data availability constraints and the complexity of integrating multiple datasets for analysis. The scope of the study is defined to focus on a specific urban area, providing a detailed examination of groundwater quality within the study area. The significance of the study lies in its potential to contribute valuable insights to urban planning and water resource management strategies, ultimately enhancing environmental sustainability and public health outcomes. The structure of the thesis is outlined to guide the reader through the various chapters and sections that present the research findings and discussions. A comprehensive literature review explores existing studies on groundwater quality assessment, GIS applications in environmental management, and remote sensing techniques for water resource monitoring. The research methodology details the data collection methods, analysis techniques, and software tools used to assess groundwater quality parameters and generate spatial maps for visualization. The discussion of findings presents the results of the groundwater quality assessment, highlighting notable trends, spatial patterns, and potential sources of contamination identified through GIS and remote sensing analyses. The implications of the findings are discussed in relation to urban water management practices, pollution prevention strategies, and decision-making processes. In conclusion, this thesis summarizes the key findings of the study and offers recommendations for future research directions and practical applications in groundwater quality assessment using GIS and remote sensing technologies. The research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on sustainable water resource management and environmental protection in urban areas, emphasizing the importance of integrated approaches to safeguarding groundwater quality for present and future generations.