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Research article · 2026 · Full text

International Journal of Geography Geology and Environment

Identification of groundwater potential zone of Handri river basin using geospatial techniques: Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh

Y HPM Mohana Prasada RaoN Chendrayudu

Volume 8(7) · Pages 188–200 · DOI: 10.22271/27067483.2026.v8.i7b.832 ↗

Research areasGroundwater and Watershed AnalysisSoil and Land Suitability AnalysisWater Quality and Pollution Assessment

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Abstract

Author-written

Groundwater is a critical natural resource sustaining agricultural, domestic, and industrial needs, particularly in semi-arid regions where surface water is scarce. The Handri River basin in Kurnool District, Andhra Pradesh, India, faces acute water scarcity challenges, making the identification and management of groundwater potential zones of paramount importance for sustainable development and water security. This study seeks to identify and delineate groundwater potential zones (GWPZs) in the Handri River basin using an integrated geospatial approach. This study used remote sensing (RS), geographic information systems (GIS), and analytical hierarchical processing (AHP) methods. Various thematic maps were produced to assess potential groundwater areas, including land use and cover, geomorphology, lineament density, geology, drainage density, slope, and soil. This map was created using RS and GIS techniques. The AHP approach was used to assign relative weights to the thematic maps and determine the ranking of each sub-criterion based on expert advice. The groundwater potential zone map was created by combining seven thematic layers in ArcGIS. This map provides information on the distribution of groundwater potential areas, including high (26% or 131.60 km2), moderate (12.76% or 452.56 km2), low (63.47% or 2250.75 km2), and the least (15.99% or 567.16 km2). work It is a very poor area (5.32%, or 188.73 km2). The accuracy of the results was verified with 85% accuracy using bore hole observation data. However, yields were reduced in areas with low water potential. In conclusion, the AHP model has proven to be a reliable method for assessing groundwater potential. Groundwater management programs implemented in these favourable areas will be of great benefit to stakeholders.

Summary

Source-checked

Plain-language reading of the full paper, prepared with AI and checked against the text. Each point links to the authors' own words.

  1. Why it matters

    • Groundwater is essential for agriculture, industry, and domestic use, especially in semi-arid areas where surface water is limited. View evidence ↗

      Why it matters

      Groundwater is essential for agriculture, industry, and domestic use, especially in semi-arid areas where surface water is limited.

      In the paper's own words

      “Groundwater is a critical natural resource sustaining agricultural, domestic, and industrial needs, particularly in semi-arid regions where surface water is scarce.”

      Page 1

      Found in: Introduction

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 1 ↗
    • The Handri River basin in Andhra Pradesh, India, suffers from severe water scarcity, necessitating the identification of groundwater potential zones for water security. View evidence ↗

      Why it matters

      The Handri River basin in Andhra Pradesh, India, suffers from severe water scarcity, necessitating the identification of groundwater potential zones for water security.

      In the paper's own words

      “The Handri River basin in Kurnool District, Andhra Pradesh, India, faces acute water scarcity challenges, making the identification and management of groundwater potential zones of paramount importance for sustainable development and water security.”

      Page 1

      Found in: Study area

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 1 ↗
  2. The question

    • The study aims to map and define groundwater potential zones (GWPZs) in the Handri River basin using geospatial techniques. View evidence ↗

      The question

      The study aims to map and define groundwater potential zones (GWPZs) in the Handri River basin using geospatial techniques.

      In the paper's own words

      “This study seeks to identify and delineate groundwater potential zones (GWPZs) in the Handri River basin using an integrated geospatial approach.”

      Page 1

      Found in: Materials and Methods

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 1 ↗
  3. What they did

    • The researchers employed an integrated approach combining remote sensing (RS), geographic information systems (GIS), and analytical hierarchical processing (AHP). View evidence ↗

      What they did

      The researchers employed an integrated approach combining remote sensing (RS), geographic information systems (GIS), and analytical hierarchical processing (AHP).

      In the paper's own words

      “This study used remote sensing (RS), geographic information systems (GIS), and analytical hierarchical processing (AHP) methods.”

      Page 1

      Found in: Literature review

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 1 ↗
    • Seven thematic layers were analyzed: land use and cover, geomorphology, lineament density, geology, drainage density, slope, and soil. View evidence ↗

      What they did

      Seven thematic layers were analyzed: land use and cover, geomorphology, lineament density, geology, drainage density, slope, and soil.

      In the paper's own words

      “Various thematic maps were produced to assess potential groundwater areas, including land use and cover, geomorphology, lineament density, geology, drainage density, slope, and soil.”

      Page 1

      Found in: Conclusions

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 1 ↗
    • The study area encompasses a total of 3,548 km² within the Handri River basin. View evidence ↗

      What they did

      The study area encompasses a total of 3,548 km² within the Handri River basin.

      In the paper's own words

      “The study area covers an area of 3548km².”

      Page 2

      Found in: Study area

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 2 ↗
    • The resulting map was validated using borehole yield data from 20 observation wells provided by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB). View evidence ↗

      What they did

      The resulting map was validated using borehole yield data from 20 observation wells provided by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB).

      In the paper's own words

      “Observation Wells (Validation) | Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) | Point data – 20 wells | Cross-validation of GWPZ map against borehole yield data”

      Page 4

      Found in: Table 1

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 4 ↗
  4. What they found

    • The basin's groundwater potential is distributed as high (26% or 131.60 km²), moderate (12.76% or 452.56 km²), low (63.47% or 2250.75 km²), and very poor (5.32% or 188.73 km²). View evidence ↗

      What they found

      The basin's groundwater potential is distributed as high (26% or 131.60 km²), moderate (12.76% or 452.56 km²), low (63.47% or 2250.75 km²), and very poor (5.32% or 188.73 km²).

      In the paper's own words

      “This map provides information on the distribution of groundwater potential areas, including high (26% or 131.60 km2), moderate (12.76% or 452.56 km2), low (63.47% or 2250.75 km2), and the least (15.99% or 567.16 km2). work It is a very poor area (5.32%, or 188.73 km2).”

      Page 1

      Found in: Drainage density

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 1 ↗
    • Validation showed that wells in low/very low zones yielded 10-40 LPM, moderate zones yielded 40-80 LPM, and high zones yielded over 80 LPM. View evidence ↗

      What they found

      Validation showed that wells in low/very low zones yielded 10-40 LPM, moderate zones yielded 40-80 LPM, and high zones yielded over 80 LPM.

      In the paper's own words

      “wells in the very low and low groundwater potential zones have a water yield capacity ranging from 10 to 40 Liters per minute (LPM). On the other hand, wells in the moderate groundwater potential zones have a water yield capacity ranging from 40 to 80 LPM, while wells in the high groundwater potential zones have a water yield capacity exceeding 80 LPM.”

      Page 11

      Found in: Conclusions

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 11 ↗
    • The groundwater potential mapping achieved an accuracy of 85%, with 17 out of 20 boreholes agreeing with the results. View evidence ↗

      What they found

      The groundwater potential mapping achieved an accuracy of 85%, with 17 out of 20 boreholes agreeing with the results.

      In the paper's own words

      “Accuracy of the potential mapping = 17/20* 100 = 85 %”

      Page 12

      Found in: Literature review

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 12 ↗
  5. What it means

    • The authors conclude that the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) model is a reliable method for assessing groundwater potential. View evidence ↗

      What it means

      The authors conclude that the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) model is a reliable method for assessing groundwater potential.

      In the paper's own words

      “In conclusion, the AHP model has proven to be a reliable method for assessing groundwater potential.”

      Page 1

      Found in: Literature review

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 1 ↗
    • The resulting map is recommended as a tool for policymakers to plan and manage groundwater for urban and agricultural purposes. View evidence ↗

      What it means

      The resulting map is recommended as a tool for policymakers to plan and manage groundwater for urban and agricultural purposes.

      In the paper's own words

      “The potential groundwater zones map produced in this study can aid policymakers in managing and planning these resources for agricultural and urban uses.”

      Page 12

      Found in: Conclusions

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 12 ↗
    • Study limitations include the 30m resolution of Landsat 8 imagery, the subjectivity of expert-based AHP weights, a small validation set of 20 wells, and the lack of temporal or seasonal data. View evidence ↗

      What it means

      Study limitations include the 30m resolution of Landsat 8 imagery, the subjectivity of expert-based AHP weights, a small validation set of 20 wells, and the lack of temporal or seasonal data.

      In the paper's own words

      “The limitations of the study include: (i) reliance on Landsat 8 imagery at 30 m resolution, which may not capture micro-scale hydrogeological variability; (ii) AHP weights are based on expert judgment and may reflect subjectivity; (iii) the validation dataset is limited to 20 CGWB observation wells, which may not fully represent the spatial heterogeneity of the basin; and (iv) temporal variations in groundwater levels and seasonal recharge dynamics are not addressed in the current framework.”

      Page 2

      Found in: Novelty and limitations of the study

      Read it in the full textOpen PDF at page 2 ↗

Visual summary

2 visuals

Illustrations explain the paper; charts are replotted from the paper's own table values.

AI-generated illustration
AI-generated conceptual illustration (Handri river basin landscape in Kurnool district). It explains the idea and does not show study data.↗ Enlarge
Integrated Geospatial Workflow
AI-generated conceptual illustration (Handri river basin landscape in Kurnool district). It explains the idea and does not show study data.

AI-generated conceptual illustration (Handri river basin landscape in Kurnool district). It explains the idea and does not show study data.

Open full-size image ↗

Integrated Geospatial Workflow

AI-generated conceptual illustration (Handri river basin landscape in Kurnool district). It explains the idea and does not show study data.

View source evidence ↗
Replotted from source data
Replotted from Table 6 (page 6) of the original paper. Every bar is the paper's own table value.↗ Enlarge
Weightage: LULC vs GM vs LD vs Geology vs DD
Replotted from Table 6 (page 6) of the original paper. Every bar is the paper's own table value.

Replotted from Table 6 (page 6) of the original paper. Every bar is the paper's own table value.

Open full-size image ↗

Weightage: LULC vs GM vs LD vs Geology vs DD

Replotted from Table 6 (page 6) of the original paper. Every bar is the paper's own table value.

View source evidence ↗

Figures & tables

From the original paper
Location map of Handri River basinFigure 1Page 3DS. Data availability sources used in this studyTable 1Page 4Scale for the pair-wise comparisonTable 2Page 4The RI ratio of the distinct value of n (Saaty, 1980)[13]Table 3Page 4Flowchart of methodology adopted for delineation of groundwater potential zones Table.3 Pair-wise comparison matrix of thematic layersFigure 2Page 4Pair-wise comparison matrix of thematic layersTable 4Page 5Normalised weight for thematic mapsTable 5Page 5Assigned normalized weights and ranks of thematic layersTable 6Page 6Assigned normalized weights and ranks of thematic layersTable 6Page 6Land use/land cover map of the Handri River Basin.Figure 3Page 7Geomorphology map of the Handri River BasinFigure 4Page 8Lineament density map of the Handri River BasinFig. 5Page 8Geology map of the Handri River BasinFigure 6Page 9Drainage density map of the Handri River BasinFigure 7Page 9Slope map of the Handri River BasinFigure 8Page 10Soil map of the Handri River BasinFigure 9Page 10Groundwater potential zone statisticsFigure 10Page 11Groundwater potential zone map of the Handri River BasinFigure 11Page 11Location and characteristics of the observation well CGWBTable 7Page 12
FULL TEXT Original article · reflowed for reading

Introduction

Groundwater, a crucial natural resource, is stored in subsurface geological formations within the critical zone of the earth's crust. It plays a vital role as a water source for various purposes, such as domestic, industrial, agricultural, and developmental initiatives. Groundwater is stored beneath the ground's surface in small pore spaces between rock, sand, soil, and gravel. It exists in two distinct zones: an upper unsaturated zone, primarily filled with air, and a deeper saturated zone, where all pore spaces are filled with water. The depth of the water table can vary from a few feet to several hundred feet below the ground surface (Harter, 2003; Nampak et al., 2014; Rajasekhar et al., 2022) [1][2][3] . The continuously growing need for water to fulfil human needs and advancements has placed significant stress on this finite freshwater resource. The presence and allocation of groundwater rely on diverse natural and human-induced factors (Saraf and Choudhury, 1998) [4] . According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP, 2021) [5] , over 2 billion individuals are projected to experience significant water stress by 2050. This alarming statistic is expected to obstruct the progress and growth of numerous nations globally (Boretti et al., 2019) [6] . A delineated map of groundwater zones can also serve as a tool for determining suitable locations for domestic and irrigation wells (Arulbalaji et al., 2019) [7] . The identification of groundwater as a subsurface phenomenon can be indirectly determined through the analysis of observable terrain features. Recent technological advancements enable us to delineate with greater effectiveness and efficiency than ever before. Remote sensing and Geographic Information System(GIS) is a powerful tool for effectively managing spatial data. (Manson et al., 2015) [8] MCDM approaches have improved understanding of the links and interactions between many layers of geo-environmental and hydrological inputs in conjunction with the governing system. The analytical hierarchy process(AHP) technique is among the most commonly utilized multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approaches. It was invented by Thomas Saaty in 1980. Many investigations have employed various decision-making approaches in combination with remote sensing (RS) and geographical information systems (GIS) to produce more concrete outcomes in the appraisal of groundwater resources. Another famous technique is the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) (Kanak et al., 2023; Rajasekhar et al., 2019; Gnanachandrasamy et al., 2018; Ramachandran et al., 2022) [912] . As a result, this research aims to use GIS and AHP to identify the GWPZs of the Handri River basin. For this reason, seven thematic layers were used land use/land cover, geomorphology, lineament density, geology, drainage density, slope, and soil. This research will be valuable for groundwater resource planners and policymakers in developing sustainable groundwater strategies in this basin area.

Literature review

Geospatial technologies including Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have been widely used for groundwater potential zone (GWPZ) delineation worldwide. Nampak et al. (2014) [2] applied an evidential belief function model using GIS-based data to map groundwater potential zones with satisfactory accuracy. Harter (2003) [1] provided foundational concepts of groundwater hydrology, emphasising the importance of geological formations in controlling groundwater occurrence. Rajasekhar et al. (2022) [3] demonstrated the effectiveness of geospatial and decisionmaking techniques for GWPZ identification in southern India. Arulbalaji et al. (2019) [7] combined GIS and AHP techniques to delineate GWPZs in the southern Western Ghats, achieving high validation accuracy. Saraf and Choudhury (1998) [4] pioneered the integration of RS and GIS for groundwater exploration and artificial recharge site identification. Subsequent studies by Rajasekhar et al. (2019) [10] and Gnanachandrasamy et al. (2018) [11] confirmed that multicriteria decision-making methods, particularly the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), produce reliable and reproducible results in groundwater potential assessment across diverse geoenvironmental settings. Ramachandran et al. (2022) [12] further validated AHP-based GIS approaches for sustainable groundwater management in Tamil Nadu. Collectively, this body of literature establishes the scientific foundation for the methodology adopted in the present study.

Theoretical background

The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), introduced by Thomas L. Saaty (1980) [13] , is a structured multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) framework that decomposes a complex decision problem into a hierarchy of simpler subproblems. In the context of GWPZ delineation, AHP enables experts to assign relative importance weights to thematic parameters (such as geology, lineament density, drainage density, slope, soil, geomorphology, and LULC) through pairwise comparisons on a 1-9 intensity scale (Saaty, 1980; Table 1) [13] . The pairwise comparison matrix is then normalised to yield priority weights (eigenvectors), and the consistency of the expert judgments is verified using the Consistency Ratio (CR). A CR value below 0.10 confirms that the pairwise comparisons are sufficiently consistent for reliable weight derivation (Saaty, 2008) [14] . Remote sensing data provide multi-spectral imagery for mapping surface features, while GIS platforms facilitate the spatial integration of heterogeneous thematic layers through weighted overlay analysis. The combination of RS, GIS, and AHP thus offers a robust, reproducible, and spatially explicit framework for groundwater resource assessment.

Table 1. DS. Data availability sources used in this study
DS. Data availability sources used in this study↗ Enlarge
Table 1
DS. Data availability sources used in this study

DS. Data availability sources used in this study

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Original paper figureSource PDF · page 4 ↗

Novelty and limitations of the study

The novelty of the present study lies in its comprehensive geospatial assessment of the Handri River basin a hydrogeologically significant yet understudied watershed in semi-arid Andhra Pradesh using an integrated RS-GIS-AHP framework incorporating seven thematic layers validated against Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) observation well data. Unlike previous studies in the region that focused on broader administrative units, this study provides watershedscale, high-resolution GWPZ mapping that can directly support local-level groundwater governance. The limitations of the study include: (i) reliance on Landsat 8 imagery at 30 m resolution, which may not capture micro-scale hydrogeological variability; (ii) AHP weights are based on expert judgment and may reflect subjectivity; (iii) the validation dataset is limited to 20 CGWB observation wells, which may not fully represent the spatial heterogeneity of the basin; and (iv) temporal variations in groundwater levels and seasonal recharge dynamics are not addressed in the current framework.

Objectives

• Develop a groundwater potential map of Handri River basin using RS, GIS, and AHP.

• Integrate thematic layers to analyse factors influencing groundwater potential.

• Generate zones and insights for sustainable water resource planning in the area.

Study area

The Handri River Basin study area (Fig. 1) is located in the western part of Kurnool District. Administratively, the study area consists of 19 Mandals and covers parts of 13 Survey of India toposheets on a 1:50,000 scale. The study area covers an area of 3548km². It is located between latitudes of 15°12 '37 ''N to 15° 49′ 20′′N and longitudes 77°16 '49 '' E to 78° 04′ 52 " E. The mean altitude of the basin is 469.5 meters with peak and trough values; the weather is warm and arid for a significant portion of the year. The summer period experiences intense heat, with temperatures soaring to +42° Celsius, while the winter months bring agreeable conditions, with nighttime temperatures reaching approximately 13° Celsius. The study region experiences an annual average precipitation of 665 mm. Handri River rises from the western part of the study area in Erramala hills and merges into the Tungabhadra River at Kurnool town, and the drainage pattern was found to be dendritic; the study area is distinguished by a wide range of geological formations from the Archaean period to the recent. Granite and Granite gneisses dominate the western district, while quartzites, shales, and limestones from the Cuddapah and Kurnool groups present in the eastern part. The Handri River basin was selected as the study area based on the following considerations: (i) the basin is located in the semiarid Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, a region historically prone to droughts and water scarcity (Rajasekhar et al., 2019) [10] ; (ii) rapid population growth and agricultural expansion have led to overexploitation of groundwater, creating an urgent need for resource mapping; (iii) the basin exhibits diverse geological formations from Archaean granites to Cuddapah and Kurnool Group sedimentaries, making it an ideal test bed for geospatial hydrogeological analysis; and (iv) limited published studies on the basin's groundwater potential offer scope for original scientific contribution. Data sources used for the study include USGS Landsat 8 imagery (30 m resolution), SRTM DEM (30 m), GSI Bhukosh portal for geology, SOI toposheets at 1:50,scale, NBSS soil resource maps, and CGWB observation well records.

Figure 1. Location map of Handri River basin
Location map of Handri River basin↗ Enlarge
Figure 1
Location map of Handri River basin

Location map of Handri River basin

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Original paper figureSource PDF · page 3 ↗

Materials and Methods

The current study aims to identify groundwater potential zones (GWPZ) in the Handri River Basin. The process involves the evaluation of various thematic layers, comprising geomorphology (GM), Lineament Density (LD), Drainage Density (DD), geology, land use/land cover (LULC), soils, and slope. The layers are collectively appraised through information-based weighted overlay analysis (WOA) using the AHP method. The resulting GWPZ map is prepared based on the methodology presented in (Fig. 2). The technique used in the study involved collecting and preparing all seven thematic layers using ArcGIS software. Weights were assigned to georeferenced maps using the analytical hierarchy process. The normalized weights for the layers were obtained by ensuring consistency in the pairwise matrix, meeting the consistency index and consistency ratio values. The pairwise matrix is considered consistent if its CR value is below 0.1(Table 4). The layers were assigned the determined weights and underwent weighted overlay analysis. The groundwater potential zone was classified into four classes based on the index value calculated using Eq. 1. The results were verified by comparing them with borehole yield. The methodology adopted for this study is depicted in Figure 2. The following equation represents the groundwater potential zone:

Table 4. Pair-wise comparison matrix of thematic layers
FactorsLULCGMLDGeologyDDSlopeSoil
LULC1234567
GM0.5123456
LD0.33112345
Geology0.250.330.51234
DD0.20.250.330.5123
Slope0.160.20.250.330.2512
Soil0.140.160.20.250.330.51

Table text extracted from the original PDF; superscript letters are shown inline. The original table image is below.

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Pair-wise comparison matrix of thematic layers↗ Enlarge
Table 4
Pair-wise comparison matrix of thematic layers

Pair-wise comparison matrix of thematic layers

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Original paper tableSource PDF · page 5 ↗
Figure 2. Flowchart of methodology adopted for delineation of groundwater potential zones Table.3 Pair-wise comparison matrix of thematic layers
Flowchart of methodology adopted for delineation of groundwater potential zones Table.3 Pair-wise comparison matrix of thematic layers↗ Enlarge
Figure 2
Flowchart of methodology adopted for delineation of groundwater potential zones Table.3 Pair-wise comparison matrix of thematic layers

Flowchart of methodology adopted for delineation of groundwater potential zones Table.3 Pair-wise comparison matrix of thematic layers

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Original paper figureSource PDF · page 4 ↗

Determination of rank and weights using AHP

The Analytical Hierarchy Process is a decision-making technique that leverages the expertise of professionals to establish the priority and significance of different criteria by creating an eigenvalue pairwise comparison matrix. This method is particularly advantageous in intricate scenarios with multiple variables influencing the outcome. The process involves developing a pairwise matrix to give weights (Table 3) to each criterion based on the relative importance of all other criteria, utilizing Saaty's 1-9 scale (Table 1) to determine the significance of values. A rating of signifies equal importance, while a score of 9 indicates the highest level of significance. This approach has gained widespread acceptance and proven in decision making across various fields as demonstrated in Saaty's 1980 [13] 𝐶𝐼 = 𝜆𝑚𝑎𝑥 -𝑛 𝑛 -1

Table 3. The RI ratio of the distinct value of n (Saaty, 1980)[13]
The RI ratio of the distinct value of n (Saaty, 1980)[13]↗ Enlarge
Table 3
The RI ratio of the distinct value of n (Saaty, 1980)[13]

The RI ratio of the distinct value of n (Saaty, 1980)[13]

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Original paper figureSource PDF · page 4 ↗

Eq.2 where λmax = consistency vector; n=criteria or factors CR is calculated using Eq. 3

𝐶𝑅 = 𝐶𝐼 𝑅𝐼

Eq.3 where RI (Table 2). random consistency index, provided by Saaty (2008) [14] Equations and are utilised to calculate the consistency index and consistency ratio of a given matrix. The matrix is then checked for consistency. If the consistency ratio is less than 0.1, the criteria weights obtained are considered reliable for analysis. This approach offers the decision-maker several options. Additionally, the consistency ratio can be verified to ensure the objectivity of the weights calculated. If the requirement is not met, the matrix can be reconstructed with different options.

Table 2. Scale for the pair-wise comparison
Intensity of importanceDefinitions
1Equal importance
2Equal to moderate importance
3Moderate importance
4Moderate to strong importance
5Strong importance
6Strong to very strong importance
7Very strong importance
8Very to extreme strong importance
9Extreme importance

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Table 2
Scale for the pair-wise comparison

Scale for the pair-wise comparison

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Results and discussion

Land use/land cover (LULC) Land use and land cover play a crucial role in controlling surface runoff as it is influenced by factors such as vegetation type and soil wetness, which affect evapotranspiration, penetration, and condensation. Consequently, it greatly influences the recharge of groundwater. In terms of significance, the land use/land cover pattern is ranked first with a normalized weight of 0.3451 (Table 4). The Handri River Basin showcases a diverse range of land use categories, including Forest, Build-up areas, Barren land, Agriculture area, and water bodies (Fig. 3).

Figure 3. Land use/land cover map of the Handri River Basin.
Land use/land cover map of the Handri River Basin.↗ Enlarge
Figure 3
Land use/land cover map of the Handri River Basin.

Land use/land cover map of the Handri River Basin.

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Original paper figureSource PDF · page 7 ↗

Geomorphology

Geomorphology is a scientific field that studies the development and changes of landforms, as well as their relationship to groundwater potential zones and structural characteristics. It holds the second important position, with a normalized weight of 0.2350 (Table 4). Geomorphology can be divided into different classes based on their origins: anthropogenic, denudational, fluvial, structural, and water body (fig 4). From a geomorphological perspective, the majority of the area is characterized by denudational origin, where pediments are formed around structural and denudational hills.

Figure 4. Geomorphology map of the Handri River Basin
Geomorphology map of the Handri River Basin↗ Enlarge
Figure 4
Geomorphology map of the Handri River Basin

Geomorphology map of the Handri River Basin

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Original paper figureSource PDF · page 8 ↗

In the eastern part of the basin, structural hills give rise to low and moderately dissected hills. The Handri River flows in a northeastern direction, resulting in sparsely distributed water bodies and hill ranges that are predominantly granitic. This dominance of granite contributes to a dendritic drainage pattern and the occurrence of low to moderate levels of groundwater in hard rock structures with high runoff and low infiltration. 4).

Geology

The Handri basin boasts diverse litho units (fig. 6), each classified based on their distinct properties. Predominantly characterized by Archean granite and granite gneiss formations, the basin showcases a range of geological features vital for identifying groundwater potential zones. Quartz reefs, basic dykes, and granites demonstrate heightened water infiltration and storage capabilities owing to their unique fracturing and weathering characteristics. Conversely, volcanic conglomerates and meta rhyolites exhibit varying porosity levels, influencing their suitability as aquifers. The presence of granite gneiss contributes to the development of diverse groundwater flow patterns. Furthermore, formations rich in carbonates, like Koilakuntla limestone, and quartz-rich ones, such as Paniam quartz, serve as significant reservoirs for groundwater. In some localized regions, Banaganapalli quartzite and Gulcheru quartzite form aquifers through the presence of fractures and joints, thereby playing a pivotal role in facilitating sustainable groundwater management practices within the basin. Ranked fourth in importance, it holds a normalized weight of 0.1048 (Table 4).

Figure 6. Geology map of the Handri River Basin
Geology map of the Handri River Basin↗ Enlarge
Figure 6
Geology map of the Handri River Basin

Geology map of the Handri River Basin

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Drainage density

Drainage density is a key indicator of hydrogeological features as it directly correlates with the underlying lithology. This metric, defined as the proximity of stream channel spacing, inversely relates to permeability. It quantifies the total length of stream channels within a given area. The drainage pattern reflects surface characteristics and provides insights into subsurface formations. Higher drainage density indicates increased runoff, whereas lower density suggests more significant potential for recharge or groundwater zones. In the study area, drainage density ranges from 0 to 1.81 km/km² (fig. 7) classified into five categories: very low, low, moderate, high, and very high, with a normalized weight of 0.0690 (Table 4). and is In comparison, the highest value class (steep) is assigned a lower rank owing to its relatively higher runoff characteristics.

Figure 7. Drainage density map of the Handri River Basin
Drainage density map of the Handri River Basin↗ Enlarge
Figure 7
Drainage density map of the Handri River Basin

Drainage density map of the Handri River Basin

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In the study area, the Slope ranges from 00 to greater than 400 (fig. 8) and is classified into five categories: very low, low, moderate, high, and very high, with a normalized weight of 0.0429 (Table 4). 5) normalized 0.0310 infiltration assigned to (fig. 9). The weights of the are shown in and with a weight of (Table 4)

Figure 9. Soil map of the Handri River Basin
Soil map of the Handri River Basin↗ Enlarge
Figure 9
Soil map of the Handri River Basin

Soil map of the Handri River Basin

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Figure 8. Slope map of the Handri River Basin
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Figure 8
Slope map of the Handri River Basin

Slope map of the Handri River Basin

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Assessment of groundwater potential zones

The ultimate standard weights for each thematic layer and their specific characteristics were computed as part of the process. Next, the layers were transformed into a raster format and combined using the raster calculator function in ArcGIS software. The objective was to define the zone of groundwater potential. Based on the total score, the groundwater potential zone was classified into four categories: High (26%), moderate (31%), low (34%), and very low (9%), as shown in Fig. 10.

Figure 10. Groundwater potential zone statistics
Groundwater potential zone statistics↗ Enlarge
Figure 10
Groundwater potential zone statistics

Groundwater potential zone statistics

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Conclusions

The current study focused on the Handri River basin in the western part of the Kurnool district to assess its groundwater potential. The study utilized a combination of AHP and GIS, employing thematic layers, including LULC, geomorphology, lineament density, geology, drainage density, slope, and soil. These themes were weighted between individuals by pairwise comparisons and were aggregated in the GIS utilizing the weighted overlay. Based on the final output map, the study region was divided into four different zones of groundwater potential high (26%), moderate (31%), low (34%), and very low (9%). To determine the accuracy of the resulting groundwater potential zone map, it was compared with borehole yield spread throughout the study region. Boreholes located in very low and low potential zones yielded 10 to 40 liters per minute. In contrast, those in moderate potential zones yielded 40 to 80 LPM, and those in high potential zones yielded more than 80 LPM. The potential groundwater zones map produced in this study can aid policymakers in managing and planning these resources for agricultural and urban uses. As the majority of the study area is covered by agricultural land, this study will assist in improving irrigation facilities and enhancing agricultural productivity in the region.

Figures and tables from the paper

Table 5. Normalised weight for thematic maps
FactorsLULCGMLDGeologyDDSlopeSoilNormalised -weightCR
LULC0.38570.44940.41190.36090.31580.27910.25000.34510.02
GM0.19280.22470.27460.27070.25260.23260.21430.2350
LD0.12860.11240.13730.18050.18950.18600.17860.1722
Geology0.09640.07490.06860.09020.12630.13950.14290.1056
DD0.07710.05620.04580.04510.06320.09300.10710.0696
Slope0.06430.04490.03430.03010.03160.04650.07140.0429
Soil0.05510.03750.02750.02260.02110.02330.03570.0310
LULCGMLDGeologyDDSlopeSoilSumWeightage
LULC0.3880.4050.4120.3610.3210.2790.2502.4160.345
GM0.1940.2020.2750.2710.2570.2330.2141.6450.235
LD0.1280.2020.1370.1810.1930.1860.1791.2050.172
Geology0.0970.0670.0690.0900.1280.1400.1430.7330.105
DD0.0780.0510.0450.0450.0640.0930.1070.4830.069
Slope0.0620.0400.0340.0300.0160.0470.0710.3010.043
Soil0.0540.0320.0270.0230.0210.0230.0360.2170.031
Sum2.5804.9407.28011.08015.58021.50028.0001.000
LULCGMLDGeologyDDSlopeSoilSumWeightage
LULC0.3880.4050.4120.3610.3210.2790.2502.4160.345
GM0.1940.2020.2750.2710.2570.2330.2141.6450.235
LD0.1280.2020.1370.1810.1930.1860.1791.2050.172
Geology0.0970.0670.0690.0900.1280.1400.1430.7330.105
DD0.0780.0510.0450.0450.0640.0930.1070.4830.069
Slope0.0620.0400.0340.0300.0160.0470.0710.3010.043
Soil0.0540.0320.0270.0230.0210.0230.0360.2170.031
Sum2.5804.9407.28011.08015.58021.50028.0001.000
LULCGMLDGeologyDDSlopeSoilSumWeightage

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Table 5
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Table 6. Assigned normalized weights and ranks of thematic layers
—LULCGMLDGeologyDDSlopeSoilSumWeightage—λmaxCICR
LULC0.1340.0950.0710.0380.0220.0120.0080.3800.3451.1007.2200.0370.028
GM0.0670.0480.0470.0280.0180.0100.0070.2240.2350.955
LD0.0440.0480.0240.0190.0130.0080.0060.1610.1720.936
Geology0.0330.0160.0120.0090.0090.0060.0040.0900.1050.856
DD0.0270.0120.0080.0050.0040.0040.0030.0630.0690.912
Slope0.0210.0100.0060.0030.0010.0020.0020.0450.0431.054
Soil0.0190.0080.0050.0020.0010.0010.0010.0370.0311.194
Sum2.5804.9407.28011.08015.58021.50028.000

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Table 6. Assigned normalized weights and ranks of thematic layers
FactorsClassesClass rankWeight (%)
LULCWater body535
Forest4
Agriculture4
Buildup area2
Barren land1
GeomorphologyFluvial origin524
Water body5
Anthropogenic3
Denudational Hill2
Structural Hill1
Lineament densityVery High516
High4
Moderate3
Low2
Very Low1
GeologyKoilakuntla limestones510
Vempalli dolomites4
Meta rhyolite /Meta basalt3
Volconic conglomerate3
Gulcheru quartzite2
Banaganapalli quartzite2

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Fig. 5. Lineament density map of the Handri River Basin
Lineament density map of the Handri River Basin↗ Enlarge
Fig. 5
Lineament density map of the Handri River Basin

Lineament density map of the Handri River Basin

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Figure 11. Groundwater potential zone map of the Handri River Basin
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Figure 11
Groundwater potential zone map of the Handri River Basin

Groundwater potential zone map of the Handri River Basin

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Table 7. Location and characteristics of the observation well CGWB
Well No.LocationLatitudeLongitudeGWL (mbgl)Yielding (LPM)Total depth in (M)
1Kodumuru15.6713977.778893.95120160
2Kirshnapuram15.6469477.766115.875190
3Gorantla15.6311177.86417730190
4Ternekallu15.6341777.526679.538200
5Devarakonda15.5333377.548331118.96180
6Khairuppala15.5625077.493331024200
7Kapatrala15.6066777.63056672200
8Pandikona15.4416777.558334.514080
9Burjula15.3144477.43889850198
10Sambigallu15.6166777.381116.465170
11Nalakaladoddi15.4716777.430566.858140
12Hosun Road15.3833377.494445.660160
13Pattikonda15.4027877.50000929200
14Penumada15.5161977.792634.585120
15Alamakonda15.4398877.734495.570130
16Veldurthi15.5464177.931459.819.2200
17Krishnagiri15.5462177.83359550150
18Yapadinne15.3801977.77803918170
19Devarabanda15.6279477.670707.535180
20Gundlakonda15.4766177.648448.528191

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Table 7
Location and characteristics of the observation well CGWB

Location and characteristics of the observation well CGWB

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