Author: Sett D.N

Place: Delhi

Publisher: Government of India

Year: 1964

Pages: 146

Subject: Bombay/ Mumbai

Sub-Subject: Bombay

Keyword: Groundwater Resources, Tubewell Development, Geological Formations

Shelf: C9R5

Accession No: B1639

Contents: Summary, Introduction, Climate, Physiography, Groundwater, Tubewells, Distribution and Concentration of Salinity, Development of Groundwater, Recommendations, Index to Localities, List of References, Appendices, List of Plates

Abstract: Between 1952 and 1954, groundwater resources across 3,820 sq km in the Delhi region, including parts of Rohtas and Gurgaon districts, were investigated to assess the potential for tubewell-based development. The area, comprising Quaternary alluvial deposits and dune sands, is disrupted by a rocky ridge of Alwar quartzites and primarily drained by the Yamuna River. Average annual rainfall is about 54 cm, mostly from June to September. Dug wells in various geological formations yield differing water quantities and quality. Alwar quartzites produce 81.8 kl.p.d. of fairly fresh to slightly saline water; Older Alluvium yields 35.5 kl.p.d. of brackish to highly saline water; Newer Alluvium offers 152.3 kl.p.d. of fresh to slightly saline water; and dune sands yield 27.3 kl.p.d. of nearly fresh water. Chemical analyses reveal significant variations in bicarbonate, chloride, and sulphate concentrations, averaging 425, 800, and 127 ppm respectively, with seasonal fluctuations in ionic composition. Despite generally low yields and salinity in some areas, small-scale irrigation using open wells is viable. Large-scale groundwater development through tubewells is particularly promising in the eastern and southeastern parts of Delhi and areas north of the ridge where water quality and yield are more favorable.