What are the major sources of fresh water? Do you know how groundwater contribute for global water security? What is mean by ground water aquifers? And, what would happen if these are contaminated? For all these, let’s start brainstorming..
Present state of ground water resources
Factually, for world, ground water is and would be the most important source in future. For India, almost 80 percent Indian population is directly depends on the underground water.
At the present, in India, around 70 percent ground water aquifers are showing symptoms of contamination. Isn’t it shocking for people of developing nations?
In case of surface fresh water resources, everyone is omniscient about the quality of major rivers in India. Around 70 percent of surface water is unfit to drink there. In such condition, who could be the ground water safe for drinking?
What is mean by ground water aquifers and how do they get contaminated?
For layman’s understanding, aquifers are underground pockets of fresh water. Impermeable rocks act as a protective layer between land surface and aquifers.
Rain water or surface riverine water helps to recharge them on depletion. In other words, it is a natural arrangement of water conservation of nature by nature for human future.
What are the types of aquifers”
Technically, ground water aquifers are classified on the basis of rock structure in which they are formed.
Types of ground water aquifers
For various purposes, geologist classify them as confined and unconfined ground water aquifers. Confined are more impermeable than unconfined.
Compare to confined, unconfined water aquifers are more prone to get pollution due to porosity or permeability of rock between land surface and upper portion of aquifers.
Factors responsible for pollution of ground water aquifers
Ground water aquifers are the only source of storage of fresh water. They not only quench the thrust of millions in India alone but also maintain healthy balance. Let’s see major factors responsible for contamination.
Drilling activities for tube wells
First, Indiscriminate drilling for tube wells on the name of water harvesting in the urban areas is the first and most important reason responsible for the ongoing pace of seepage of waste water in the confined aquifers.
Pollution of surface water
Second, polluted surface water is the main cause of contamination. Largely in rainy season, these water easily seeps through the fracture or pores of impermeable rocks.
Besides, chemical fertilizers and mining operations in the geologically sensitive valleys are no less responsible. And, lack of awareness, inaccessible technology is also responsible for delaying protective measures.
Final thought on aquifers,
Like other things, underground aquifers are irreplaceable with either human or technological means. The only mean is to protect and conserve them. They took thousands of years to form. It is hardly thinkable to control the ongoing pace of contamination within a short period of time. but, let’s hope for.
Ground state electron configuration
Natural resources and conservation
Impacts of sea surface temperature
However and nevertheless conjunctions