College of Water Resources and Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China; College of Science and Technology, Western University, P.O. Box 190, Kakamega 50100, Kenya
Ong'or, B.T.I., College of Water Resources and Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China, College of Science and Technology, Western University, P.O. Box 190, Kakamega 50100, Kenya; Long-Cang, S., College of Water Resources and Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
A simple approach is proposed for identifying areas vulnerable to groundwater overdraft. The methodology utilizes GIS techniques to analyze and evaluate controlling factors in areas with little data. The proposed methodology was applied in Arusha. Water demand in Arusha Municipality and its environs has increased to about 5.3% annually since 1999. Groundwater levels have declined. The aquifer hydrogeological variables were evaluated for impact to potential groundwater overdraft by overlay and index techniques. The spatial distribution of overdraft vulnerability was discussed. The northwestern part of Arusha is the most vulnerable to overdraft and possible serious environmental impacts. The Loruvani area has the most potential for aquifer development due to its permeability, high recharge rate, massive aquifer thickness and low drawdown. © 2006 Springer-Verlag.
Aquifers; Environmental impact; Geographical regions; Hydrogeology; Municipal engineering; Water supply; Groundwater levels; Groundwater overdraft; Hydrogeological variables; Qualitative hydrogeology; Groundwater; aquifer characterization; environmental impact assessment; GIS; groundwater; hydrogeology; index method; methodology; spatial distribution; vulnerability; water demand; water level; Africa; Arusha [Arusha (RGA)]; Arusha [Tanzania]; East Africa; Sub-Saharan Africa; Tanzania