Assessment of Groundwater Vulnerability Contamination Potential of Konya, Turkey, Using Hydrogeological Specifications and GIS

Abstract

The aims of this study to assess the potential groundwater contamination impacts on unconfined aquifer from which most of the drinking water in a part of Konya is withdrawn. For assessing the vulnerability, 7 hydrogeological maps are used. These maps, depth to the groundwater, net recharge, aquifer media, soil media, topography, impact of the vadose zone and hydraulic conductivity are established and overlaid in GIS for the area. The overlaid (DRASTIC index) map indicates high vulnerability potential at central areas of the city. Groundwater samples are collected from different vulnerable areas. Chemicals (As, Cd, Ni and Pb) are analyze for testing of contamination degree. It is observed that the vulnerability category determines the contamination degree. The model is a useful and correct technique for assessing the aquifer safety.