Executive Summary : | The River Barak flows through Cachar, Assam, with agricultural land less waterlogged during rainy season and surface water scarcity during Rabi/dry period. However, the area has unexploited huge groundwater that can be withdrawn to enhance agricultural yield during dry periods. Groundwater plays a crucial role in supporting the livelihood of both rural and urban inhabitants in the Barak valley. A comprehensive study is necessary for optimal usage of untapped groundwater resources in this region. To capture the response of the groundwater system, a distributed 3-D groundwater flow model is needed. Geophysical studies will be performed to identify the extent of aquifer and nature using electrical resistivity imaging. Remote sensing techniques will be used to identify vulnerable stretch and bank shifting and erosion over time. Boreholes will be dug at critical points to quantify the extent of stream-aquifer interaction on meander stretches. Pumping tests will be performed at boreholes to compute aquifer parameters. soil samples will be collected from selected sections and soil tests will be conducted to identify required parameters. A spatial-temporal groundwater aquifer database will be prepared for the Barak basin, and historical hydrological data will be collected from state and central agencies. The developed 3-D MODFLOW model will be used to assess the impact of groundwater-river interaction on meandering stretch of Barak river near silchar town and propose groundwater withdrawal/pumping from the untapped groundwater aquifer. |