Assessment of hydrogeological parameters in a tropical region using GIS and AHP

Abstract

Hydrogeological parameters have a significant impact on groundwater fluctuations in a tropical region. Malaysia is a tropical country experiencing rise in groundwater usage to meet the growing water demand. Therefore, an assessment of hydrogeological parameters is necessary for sustainable planning and management of groundwater. Geology, rainfall, drainage density, slope and soil are the hydrogeological parameters analysed for assessment in the region. The study aimed to assess hydrogeological parameters in the state of Selangor, Malaysia using Geographic Information System (GIS) and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). The parameters were weighted based on the degree of impact on groundwater potential using AHP model. The weighted and ranked parameters were integrated through GIS to create groundwater potential zone map. The groundwater potential zones were divided into three categories low, moderate, and high potential zones. Moderate potential zones cover 73% of total area in the state of Selangor. The moderate potential zones cover most of the districts in the west such as Sabak Bernam, Klang, Kuala Langat and Sepang. As well as the majority of the area in districts like Hulu Selangor, Petaling, Gombak and Kuala Selangor. The findings of this study might be useful for policy makers and government organisations in formulating strategies for sustainable groundwater management and determining ideal locations for groundwater extraction.