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Arsenic Distribution and Characterization of Multi Layer Aquifer System in Bengal Delta for Sustainable Use of Groundwater

Anwar ZAHID
Bangladesh Water Development Board and Department of Geology, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh,

Muhammad Qumrul HASSAN
Department of Geology, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh,

Abstract/ Executive Summary:

Groundwater is the principal source of drinking and irrigation water in Bangladesh and is mainly withdrawn from shallow depths. The reporting of higher level arsenic in shallow groundwater (5-50m deep) has disrupted the whole scenario of its use. Provision of arsenic safe water for the affected people has been the greatest challenge in the country. Amongst different options, the deep aquifers of multi-layer system seem to be potential safe source of drinking water in deltaic floodplain areas. Where aquifer is separated by substantially thick impervious layer, water from that aquifer may be withdrawn for drinking purpose. However, its development needs proper study and investigation to avoid any quality and quantity degradation. The objective of the study is to provide the methodologies to characterize the aquifers in southeastern Bangladesh.

Keywords: Groundwater, Aquitard, Aquifer characterization, Arsenic distribution, Deep aquifer

Location:

Start Date:

End Date:

Program Area: Crop-Soil-Water Management

Commodity: Water quality

Objectives:

The present study was carried out with the objectives to identify aquifer formations and by determining characteristics of aquifer sediments, groundwater quality in studied areas.

Methodology:

Detection of subsurface lithology and extent of the aquifers are done by conducting test holes using direct rotary drilling methods collecting both liner samples and samples of cuttings from running water. Five lithologic logs upto 326m deep from Kachua, Dumuria and Devpur of Chandpur district, Rajoir and Madaripur Sadar of Madaripur district, under BWDB-USGS project, two from Titas and Meghna Upazilla of Comilla district upto the depth of 265m were analyzed for this study. The objectives of the study are achieved by identifying aquifer formations and by determining characteristics of aquifer sediments, groundwater quality in studied areas. Detection of subsurface lithology and extent of the aquifers are done by conducting test holes using direct rotary drilling methods collecting both liner samples and samples of cuttings from running water. Five lithologic logs upto 326m deep from Kachua, Dumuria and Devpur of Chandpur district, Rajoir and Madaripur Sadar of Madaripur district, under BWDB-USGS project, two from Titas and Meghna Upazilla of Comilla district upto the depth of 265m were analyzed for this study. Aquifer pumping tests were conducted in the deeper aquifer at Kachua and Madaripur to determine aquifer properties (e.g. transmissivity, storage co-efficient etc) and hydraulic connectivity between aquifers to evaluate the potentiality of the deep aquifer as a long-term source of safe drinking water. Grain size analyses were done for Titas and Meghna aquifer sediments, samples selected from the potential aquifer formations. Groundwater level was monitored to assess the response to pumping and flow trend and evaluation of the potential for movement of shallow groundwater into the deeper system. Groundwater samples were collected from the piezometers installed at different depths at Kachua, Rajoir and Madaripur and at deep aquifers at Titas and Meghna. Results of arsenic, iron and chloride are presented here, analyzed in the laboratory of Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET).

Source of Information: International Conference on Water & Flood Management (ICWFM-2007), 12 - 14 March 2007, BUET, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Article Link (Online Journal):

Funding Source:

Total Budget (Tk.) :

Achievement/Findings:

Deep aquifers are generally encountered at depths of ±275m in the studied areas. However, large-scale exploration of groundwater may not be encouraged because of the possibility of arsenic leakage from upper aquifer or saline water intrusion. Detailed investigation and characterization of aquifers, assessment of groundwater quality and quantity is required for each groundwater zone before exploration. Regional modeling of groundwater system has to be developed for effective management plan. Model can be developed considering effects of increased abstraction stresses from aquifers, analysis of recharge and water balance.

Knowledge Management: Report/Proceedings