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,