Simulation of Groundwater Flow in the Coastal Area of Kanyakumari, South India, by Three – Dimensional Mathematical Model
Abstract
Three dimensional mathematical model was used for a detailed experimental study to analyse groundwater flow in the region of coastal area Kanyakumari, South India. The study area is analysed and characterized by high intensity of rainfall, less extraction of underground water for domestic and agricultural purposes. Sandy clay soil aquifers are in the study area. 75 well stations in the study area are located used to analyse and design the mathematical model as major pumping stations. Groundwater heads are simulated by the, groundwater model using MODFLOW was developed for the aquifers.
The MODFLOW model was used to study groundwater flow conditions over an area of about 860 km2, 18km width and 70km long with a grid size of 500m X 940m having 20 rows, 140 columns with total grids of 1828 in a single layer. The model is analysed to simulate a transient- state condition for the period 2000 – 2020. Transient and Steady state conditions MODFLOW model was calibrated. Observed and computed ground water heads there are reasonably matched between them.
Under various scenarios of pumping and recharge the MODFLOW model was run in transient state condition until the year 2020 to forecast groundwater flow. Results of modeling indicates, that the aquifer system is stable at the present rate of ground water pumping in the coastal area of Kanyakumari.
