Understanding Hydrogeological Surveys and Their Role in Groundwater Management

What is Hydrogeology

Hydrogeology is the branch of geology that focuses on the distribution, movement, and quality of groundwater. Hydrogeology provides information on how surface water is recharged into the ground and its movement in subsurface (through aquifers) in between soil and rock strata.

What is hydrogeological survey

A Hydrogeological survey performed by a hydrogeologist using geophysical instruments is an investigation to determine groundwater flow, movement, distribution beneath earth surface. A hydrogeological survey is carried out using resistivity or magnetic field based instruments to locate fractured zones and water bearing zones within the earth's surface for groundwater exploration purposes.

What is the cost of hydrogeological survey?

Cost of hydrogeological survey in India depends on total land area to be surveyed and total number of locations to be surveyed. On an average, a hydrogeologist charges 10k to 50k for field operations depending on location and area.

Importance of hydrogeological survey

A hydrogeological survey is conducted to determine the underground water level. Hydrogeological surveying prior to drilling a borewell helps in finding a suitable location for borewell. Finding groundwater is a complex process, and a hydrogeological survey prior to drilling minimizes the risk of financial losses by reducing failure in locating groundwater.

• Groundwater management: Hydrogeological surveys provide information about groundwater resources in an area, helping to make informed decisions on use and protection.
• Contamination risk: They help reduce the risk of borehole water contamination by identifying potential sources and recommending mitigation measures.
• Borehole drilling: Hydrogeological surveys aid in providing recommendations for borehole drilling to access high-quality groundwater for human use.
• Aquifer models: They help define aquifer models, including groundwater recharge, drainage areas, and preferential flow directions for hydrodynamic studies, territorial planning, and pollution prevention.

What is the Role of hydrogeologist

A hydrogeologist is responsible for studying the distribution, circulation, and physical properties of underground water sources. Some key roles of a hydrogeologist include:

• Site inspection
• Locating underground water
• Preparation of hydrogeological and geophysical survey reports
• Finding locations for rainwater harvesting prospects
• Designing rainwater harvesting structures
• Groundwater modeling
• Aquifer testing
• GIS mapping
• Borewell design
• Water sampling

What is a hydrogeological survey report?

A hydrogeological survey report assesses the geological and hydrological conditions of a specific area, focusing on the quality, quantity, and movement of groundwater. It can determine the impact of a proposed development on the hydrological environment, supporting sustainable development.

• Local geology of the area
• Geomorphology and soil types
• Rainfall and climate
• Elevation details
• Hydrogeological setup i.e. types of rocks encountered
• Depth of water-bearing zones
• Fractured zones encountered
• Quantum of water available
• Type of borewell to be drilled
• Resistivity survey graphs
• Lithology details

Why choose Bhoojal Survey for Hydrogeological Survey?

Bhoojal survey has successfully conducted hydrogeological surveys across India under different geological setups for over 10,000 clients in the last decade. Bhoojal’s team, with experienced staff and the latest equipment, has provided excellent results in groundwater investigation and rainwater harvesting.

Applications of hydrogeological survey

• Groundwater exploration through borewell drilling
• Groundwater recharging by locating fractured zones
• Designing rainwater harvesting structures
• Borewell structure design
• Flood modeling
• Groundwater modeling