GIS DRASTIC model for groundwater vulnerability estimation of Astaneh-Kouchesfahan Plain, Northern Iran

Abstract

In this study, the groundwater vulnerability to pollution was evaluated for Astaneh-Kouchesfahan Plain, Northern Iran using GIS DRASTIC model. Based upon available data, six thematic maps were generated and intrinsic vulnerability map was developed based upon calculations from various mapped layers and DRASTIC index. The results show that low, moderate, high and very high groundwater vulnerability risk zones cover around 12, 52, 28 and 8% of the area, respectively. Finally, in order to verify the model, the categorised DRASTIC map was compared with a categorized TDS map and the results shows that the areas including enhanced values of TDS correspond with those with higher DRASTIC ratings.