Palaeochannel detection and aquifer performance assessment in Mendha River catchment, Western India

The state of Rajasthan is one of the regions of India that has scarce water resources. In the desertic terrain of the state, there are large numbers of palaeochannels that are considered to be potential aquifers for the region. However, detection and delineation of these palaeochannels is a challenging task because most of the surface signatures are obliterated by recent alluvial cover or the land use pattern. In the present study, multi-resolution, multi-temporal satellite data products from a suite of satellites such as IRS-1D, and Landsat MSS were digitally enhanced and used to detect the palaeochannels. One of the prominent palaeochannels delineated was investigated to evaluate aquifer parameters by conducting pumping tests. Pumping test data from aquifers surrounding the palaeochannel were also collected and compared in order to assess the relative groundwater prospects of the aquifer. An integrated approach which included interpretation of multi-temporal satellite data, slope variation, drainage, geomorphology and field investigation has helped to detect several palaeochannels in the study area. The study also confirms that the palaeochannel aquifer has more potential than the surrounding aquifers.