Urbanization, Land-Use Change And Groundwater Recharge In Chamoli District, Uttarakhand

Abstract

Urbanization, land-use change, and groundwater recharge are closely interconnected processes that influence water resource sustainability in the Himalayan region. The present study examines the relationship between urban expansion, changing land-use and land-cover patterns, and groundwater recharge in Chamoli District, Uttarakhand. The district’s mountainous terrain, variable precipitation, fragile geological conditions, and growing human activities make groundwater resource management particularly important. The study aims to assess changes in built-up areas, agricultural land, forest cover, and other land categories and evaluate their potential effects on infiltration and groundwater recharge. Remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques can be employed to analyse multi-temporal satellite imagery and identify spatial and temporal changes in land use and land cover. Relevant rainfall, drainage, topographical, geological, and soil datasets can further support the assessment of groundwater recharge potential. The study also seeks to identify areas where increasing impervious surfaces and vegetation loss may reduce infiltration and increase surface runoff. The findings are expected to provide insights into the spatial relationship between urban development and groundwater recharge potential, supporting sustainable land-use planning, watershed management, and groundwater conservation. The research may contribute to evidence-based environmental planning and help local authorities develop strategies to protect water resources while accommodating the district’s evolving developmental needs.