Delineation of Springsheds (Recharge Zones) for the springs in Garhwal Region of Uttarakhand, India

Abstract

The drying of water springs is a major concern as it causes shortage of fresh water in the hilly regions. The rejuvenation of springs largely depends upon management practices of the recharge zones. To manage these recharge zones (springsheds), the delineation of the springsheds is one of the key components. The present study was attempted to delineate the springsheds considering the hydrogeology of springs in combination of the surface topography. The springshed delineation was accomplished for 20 and 15 nos. of springs located in Chandrabhaga and Danda watersheds respectively in Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. The delineated springshed areas were correlated with the spring flow behaviors to improve upon the delineation accuracies. The ArcGIS software has been used to draw the flow directions on the surface of the watersheds with reference to the outlets of springs. The results show fairly good correlation with the springshed area and flow characteristics of the springs. The delineation methodology may prove to be helpful in springshed treatment and revival of springs, the lifeline of local flora and fauna.