Identification of Potential Stormwater Recharge Zones in dense urban context: A Case Study from Pune City

Abstract

Anthropogenic alterations have affected urban hydrology in India and have generated a wide range of hydrological problems. Such alterations include increase in directly-connected impervious cover thus reducing natural groundwater recharge. In the past urban runoff was largely viewed as a nuisance, but within the new paradigm of sustainability, this water is recognized as a potential resource. This research paper discusses the importance of managing stormwater sustainably by recharging groundwater sources. It indicates the potential of stormwater harvesting, when properly managed, as a tool to counter depleting water sources and ever-increasing demand for water. The present study aims at developing a potential stormwater recharge zone map for a sub watershed in Pune city, India using GIS. Five classes of thematic maps have been integrated to prepare the final map. Each class is assigned a weightage depending on its influence on the recharge of stormwater. The resultant map (potential stormwater recharge zone map) thus prepared is classified into four classes: Very good, good, moderate and poor.