Groundwater
Groundwater is the water that is present underground in permeable rock or soil layers known as aquifers. These aquifers are typically formed by the accumulation of water from rainfall or melting snow that seeps through the ground.
Groundwater plays a critical role in providing drinking water to millions of people around the world. It also contributes to the replenishment of surface water bodies such as lakes, rivers, and wetlands. Additionally, groundwater is an important source of water for agricultural irrigation and industrial purposes.
Groundwater is replenished through a process called recharge, where water infiltrates the ground and moves downward through the spaces between soil particles or fractures in rocks. The rate of recharge depends on factors such as precipitation, soil type, and land use.
The extraction of groundwater for human use is done through wells. Excessive extraction can lead to a decline in the water table, which can result in the depletion of groundwater resources or cause the intrusion of saltwater into freshwater aquifers near coastal areas.
Groundwater quality can also be affected by various sources of contamination, including industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, and improper disposal of hazardous waste. Contaminated groundwater can pose health risks to individuals and ecosystems.
Sustainable groundwater management is essential to maintain the availability and quality of this vital resource. This includes monitoring water levels, implementing measures to reduce water demand, promoting water conservation practices, and controlling sources of contamination.