Groundwater Potential Modelling through Remote Sensing and GIS: A Case Study from Rajura Taluka, Chandrapur District, Maharashtra

Our very own survival on earth essentially depends on the water, nature's valuable gift to all life forms. The optimal and sustainable development of the resource is very crucial so that it is accessed reliably to avoid any future problems regarding its qualitative and quantitative availability. The interpretation of remote sensing data in conjunction with conventional data and sufficient ground truth information makes it possible to identify and outline various ground features such as geological structures, geomorphic features and their hydrologic characters, that may serve as direct or indirect indicators of the presence of ground and surface water. Remote sensing and Geographical Information System (GIS) have emerged as essential tools to meet ever-Increasing demand for more precise and timely information. These techniques permit rapid and cost effective natural resource survey and management. Remotely sensed data provides unbiased information on geology, geomorphology, structural pattern and recharging conditions, which logically define the groundwater regime of an area. The present study is an attempt to delineate different groundwater potential zones in Sasti watershed, Taluka Rajura of Chandrapur district (Maharashtra) using an integrated approach of Remote Sensing and Geographical Information System.