Mapping of Groundwater Potential Zones in a Crystalline Terrain Using Remote Sensing, GIS Techniques and Field Observations: A Case Study in Parts of Tanah Merah, Kelantan, Malaysia

Abstract

Identification of potential groundwater exploration sites is a difficult activity in hard rock terrain. Groundwater occus in hard rocks at secondary porosity dvoped due to weathering, fracturing, faulting, etc., and this is highly unpredictable and varies dramatically within very short distances, leading to the near-surface aquifer. Topographic, hydrogeological, and geomorphological features in these cases offer valuable clues for the identification of the appropriate location. The present investigation is confined to latitude 5° 45' 10.508"N and 5° 47' 53.309"N and longitude 101° 56' 29.001"E and 101° 59' 12.249"E. All across Telaga Bijih Area, Tanah Merah, Kelantan, this research focuses on the terrain investigation of groundwater potential zone by applying the geological mapping method and Geographical Information System (GIS) analyses. Briefly, derived from satellite imagery, topographic, geomorphological and hydrogeological observations, promising locations were delineated in hard rock areas of Telaga Bijih village and its surroundings. Several thematic layers including lineament density, lithology, drainage density, and slope density were created for this purpose using the Geographic Information System (GIS) application to generate groundwater potential zonation map. The final map of groundwater potential plays a key role while narrowing down the selection of potential zones in the study area. The present investigation is very significant in pinpointing the sites for the establishment of new groundwater wells. The areas in north-western and south-eastern parts around Kelisar, Gual and Air Chanal villages are very promising for groundwater exploration. The establishment of new wells will not only make sure the continuous supply of water to the local people but can also be exported to the other places in the vicinity, thus can prove pivotal in revenue generation.