Aquifer Vulnerability Studies using DRASTICA Model

Abstract

Groundwater in an area is vulnerable to the level of sanitation and hygiene of the populace. Next to air, water is considered as lifes most basic need. The pattern and containable levels of lifes development will largely depend upon the quantity, quality and variations in the supply of water made available to the population. The type of human activity going on in an area affects the water in terms of quality and quantity. The study identified hydrocarbon pollution, use of agrochemicals, industrial effluents and poor sanitation as contributors to the soil and water deterioration in the area. These are results of various anthropogenic activities domiciled in the area. DRASTICA model, a modification of DRASTIC model was developed and used in the construction of aquifer vulnerability map of the area. Owing to the monumental and devastating effects of hydrocarbon pollution in the area, the need to eradicate gas flaring and minimize oil spills in the area was advocated. Bioremediation and phytoremediation techniques were recommended to be applied in the clean-up of soils and water contaminated with hydrocarbon in the area. The effectiveness of DRASTICA model in evaluating water quality has been demonstrated successfully in this study.