Identification of Groundwater Potential Zones using a Data-driven Model and GIS Technique: A Case of Papumpare District, Arunachal Pradesh, India

Abstract

The increasing demand for clean water due to urbanisation and population growth has intensified the need to explore alternative water resources, particularly groundwater. This study focuses on Papumpare district in Arunachal Pradesh, India, where groundwater resources are limited because of the predominantly hilly terrain. Utilising Geographic Information System (GIS) technologies and Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Analysis (MCDMA), specifically the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), this research aims to delineate potential groundwater zones within the district. Eight thematic layers, including geology, slope, geomorphology, land use and cover, lineament density, rainfall, and drainage density, were integrated to assess groundwater potential. This study focuses on the overlay weighted analysis and delineation of groundwater potential zonation (GWPZ) based on the influence of key environmental parameters within a specified region. The findings provide a detailed map of high- and low-potential groundwater areas and support sustainable water resource management efforts. This research advances understanding of groundwater resources and offers valuable insights for sustainable management in the study area.