Distribution of Aquifer Recharge Flux at the Nodes of Finite Elements Using Landuse Map of IRS-1C

This paper deals with the rise jn water table levels due to aquifer recharge by surface water bodies and itrigated crops. FCC image of IRS-1C was used to develop landuse polygons. Recharge norms of Groundwater Estimation Committee were followed to determine recharge from these polygons. Steady state flow was simulated by application of finite element method. Area-based recharge fluxes were considered as point sources, concentrated at their area-centres. Fluxes in an element due to polygonsegments were determined separately and then distributed at the element-nodes by applying the principle of shape function.

An area of 45 sq. km in the environs of Central Rice Research Institute, Cuttack was selected for study. Contour maps of aquifer recharge and rise in water table levels have been developed for the area. Results from this study indicate that the groundwater rises by an average of 1.7 m due to surface recharge. Based on the water requirements of the crops in the study area, it is estimated that the aquifer recharge can support paddy irrigation up to a maximum of 23.6 % of the total area in Rabi season without depleting the aquifer storage.