Design of a Sustainable Rural Water Supply Scheme by Assessing Sustainable Withdrawal Through Pumping Test, Well Field Design, and Hydraulic Modeling Using WaterGEMS: A Case Study of Dadpur Village Beside the Damodar River

Abstract

This thesis focuses on the design of a sustainable rural water supply scheme in Dadpur village, Galsi-II, Purba Bardhaman located beside the Damodar River in West Bengal. The research objective is to assess hydrogeological characteristics and develop a water supply system using pumping tests, well field design, and hydraulic modelling with WaterGEMS. The research revealed crucial aquifer properties and lithological details, aiding in the development of a robust water extraction and distribution strategy. The stratified subsurface structure dominated by clayey soils, blackish clay, and various sand layers provided important information for aquifer characterization and well field design. The VES surveys showed the undulating nature of the fresh water-bearing layers, with shallow fresh water-bearing zones found at depths ranging from 39.2m to 62.5m. Hydraulic parameters obtained from pumping tests indicated a transmissivity of 2537 m²/day and storativity of 0.0984, which are essential for understanding groundwater flow dynamics and designing efficient well fields. Based on the hydraulic parameters, a well field consisting of nine wells spaced 47m apart, each well having capacity of 720m³/day, was designed to yield the required amount of water and maintain a drawdown below the specified maximum. Additionally, mechanical analysis of bore well materials informed the selection of appropriate gravel pack materials for well construction. Hydraulic analysis using WaterGEMS facilitated the simulation and optimization of the water distribution network, ensuring reliable and efficient water supply to Dadpur village. The study also estimated the projected water demand for the village up to 2052, guiding the sizing and planning of the water supply scheme. Overall, this research provides valuable insights and outcomes for designing sustainable rural water supply schemes, with implications for similar regions facing similar challenges.