International Journal of Ecology and Environmental Sciences 27: 55-59, 2001
© International Scientific Publications, New Delhi

Water Yield and Water Quality of Some Aquifers in the Himalaya

G.C.S. Negi, K. Kumar, V. Joshi, Y.S. Panda and G.S. Satyal


ABSTRACT

In the Himalayan mountains springs are the main sources of water for drinking and other household use. But in the recent years a variety of natural and human-induced activities in the recharge zones of these springs have reduced both the water yield and water quality of these sources. People experience water scarcity in many localities during summer.

This paper reports the water discharge pattern and water quality of ten representative springs emanating from a variety of recharge zones in the Lesser Himalayan region. Water yield and flow characteristics vary temporally among the springs and are mostly influenced by rainfall. Based on the relationship between rainfall and spring discharge two types of springs are recognised. On an average, annual spring discharge ranges between 0.5 and 2.9% of the annual rainfall. Similarly, quantities of both cations (Ca++, Mg++) and anions (NO3, F-, Cl-) vary markedly from one water source to another. However, the water quality lies well within the WHO norms. Based on this study, ideal recharge zone characteristics for safe drinking water supply and health of the connected water bodies downstream have been identified.

Key Words
: Aquifers, Recharge zone, Springs, Water quality,