249 Emerging Contaminants: Geochemical Insights and Impacts on Human and Environmental Health
This session addresses advanced detection techniques, ecological impact assessments, and innovative remediation strategies for emerging contaminants focusing on safeguarding geohealth and ensuring sustainable protection of ecosystems and human health.
Wednesday, 22 October 2025
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
HBGCC, 302A
Integrated Assessment of Coastal Groundwater Vulnerability: A Study in Indian Sundarbans
Paper number: 249-9
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 10:05 AM – 10:20 AM
Authors
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Kousik DasSRM University-AP, Amaravati, Mangalagiri, Andhra Pradesh
Abstract
Groundwater is the primary source of drinking water in the Sundarbans, India-a UNESCO heritage site highly vulnerable to both natural and anthropogenic factors (e.g., sea level rise, over-extraction, high population density). This study integrates geospatial and hydrochemical approaches to assess the current state of groundwater resources. A vertical vulnerability model using the DRASTIC-LU method and a horizontal vulnerability model using GALDIT (targeting seawater intrusion) have been developed. To minimize subjectivity in parameter weighting, the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), resulting in AHP-DRASTICLU and AHP-GALDIT models. Model validation used nitrate (NO₃⁻) concentrations for AHP-DRASTIC-LU and multiple geochemical indices Groundwater Quality Index for Seawater Intrusion (GQISWI). High nitrate levels aligned with zones of high vulnerability likely due to anthropogenic activity. Spatial distribution revealed seawater influence in the northeastern and southeastern zones and anthropogenic impact in the northwest. GQISWI indicating mixed water in ~81.3% of samples, and 16% exhibiting saline groundwater. GQISWI also showed strong correlation with electrical conductivity, indicating seawater intrusion. The integrated vulnerability model revealed that 42% of the area is highly vulnerable, 33% moderately vulnerable, 25% low to very low vulnerable. Vulnerability zones matched pollution load maps, affirming model accuracy. Therefore, this framework serves as an effective decision-support tool for sustainable groundwater management in coastal regions.
Keywords: Groundwater Vulnerability; Coastal Aquifers; DRASTIC, GALDIT; AHP; LULC; Seawater Intrusion; Indian Sundarbans
Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 57, No. 6
doi: 10.1130/abs/2025AM-413204
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