Modelling of Groundwater Flow and Data Requirements

Abstract

Groundwater is used for a variety of purposes, including irrigation, drinking and manufacturing. Groundwater is also the source of a large percentage of surface water. Accurate and reliable groundwater resource information (including quality) is critical to planners and decision-makers. Huge investment in the areas of groundwater exploration, development and management at state and national levels aims to meet the groundwater requirement for drinking and irrigation and generates enormous amount of data. We need to focus on improved data management, precise analysis and effective dissemination of data. Numerical models are capable of solving large and complex groundwater problems varying widely in size, nature and real life situations. With the advent of high speed computers, spatial heterogeneities, anisotropy and uncertainties can be tackled easily. However, the success of any modelling study, to a large measure depends upon the availability and accuracy of measured/recorded data required for that study. Therefore, identifying the data needs of a particular modelling study and collection/monitoring of required data form an integral part of any groundwater modelling exercise. This paper presents groundwater modelling process, basic data requirements for groundwater modelling and commonly used groundwater modelling software.