PROJECT SUMMARY REPORT: 2003-2014 NATIONAL GROUNDWATER MONITORING WELLS NETWORK FINDING CHALLENGES AND RECOMMENDED SOLUTIONS IN AFGHANISTAN Prepared by: M. Hassan Saffi, Senior Hydro-geologist Ahmad Jawid Hydro-geologist Reviewed by: Betman Bhandari, WASH Adviser December, 2013 1
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PROJECT SUMMARY REPORT: 2003-2014NATIONAL GROUNDWATER MONITORING WELLS NETWORK FINDING CHALLENGES AND RECOMMENDED SOLUTIONS IN AFGHANISTAN
2. BACKGROUND OF GROUNDWATER MONITORING WELLS NETWORKS...........................................6
3. MAIN OBJECTIVES...........................................................................................................................................6
4. RATIONALE OF THE STUDY..........................................................................................................................7
5. METHODOLOGY AND MATERIAL...............................................................................................................8
5.1 ON SITE MEASUREMENTS AND WATER QUALITY ANALYSIS PERIOD............................................................................85.2 LOCATION OF WATER POINTS.............................................................................................................................85.3 EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS FOR WATER LEVEL MEASUREMENT.....................................................................................95.4 PHYSICAL PARAMETERS MEASUREMENT DEVICES AND TOOLS.................................................................................105.5 BACTERIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS MEASUREMENT DEVICES.....................................................................................115.6 CHEMICAL PARAMETERS MEASUREMENT DEVICES................................................................................................115.7 BOTTLE USING FOR TAKEN WATER SAMPLES........................................................................................................125.8 SOIL SAMPLE.................................................................................................................................................125.9 FLOW METER................................................................................................................................................125. 10 EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS FOR GEOPHYSICAL SURVEY..........................................................................................135.11 DATA ANALYSIS RELATED SOFTWARE PACKAGE..................................................................................................13
5.12. GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SYSTEM...........................................................................................................155.13 ACQUIRING INFORMATION............................................................................................................................15
6. OUTCOMES OF THE PROJECT.....................................................................................................................15
6.1 NATIONAL GROUNDWATER MONITORING WELLS NETWORK DATABASE (WSG_SWL) AND GEOPHYSICAL DATA INFORMATION SYSTEM.........................................................................................................................................15
6.1.1 Acquisition of data...............................................................................................................................166.1.2 Database and Data Information System.............................................................................................166.1.3 Water Points Information System.......................................................................................................166.1.4 Technical Capacity Building..................................................................................................................16
6.2 ENHANCED DATA MANAGEMENT CAPACITY.......................................................................................................176.3. ENHANCE TECHNICAL SKILLS AND DATA MANAGEMENT CAPACITY......................................................................176.4. ESTABLISH AND DEVELOP WATER QUALITY AND QUANTITY DATA MANAGEMENT AND INFORMATION SYSTEM..........186.5. COLLECT HISTORIC AND RECENT GROUNDWATER DATA MANAGEMENT...............................................................196. 6 PROVIDE GROUNDWATER RELATED INFORMATION AND SUPPORT TO INTERESTED STAKEHOLDERS............................20
6.6.1 DACAAR program.................................................................................................................................206.6.2. Supporting NGOs and GO....................................................................................................................206.6.3 Enhancing Capacity of GO and NGO....................................................................................................20
6.7 IDENTIFY CRITICAL AND VULNERABLE AQUIFERS THAT REQUIRE PROTECTION...........................................................206.8 IDENTIFY THE PROBLEMATIC AREAS FROM A WATER QUANTITY PERSPECTIVE THAT REQUIRE FURTHER RESEARCH TO IDENTIFY FEASIBLE ALTERNATIVE WATER RESOURCES.................................................................................................21
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6.9 HIGHLIGHT WATER RELATED PROBLEMS TO SUPPORT DECISION MAKERS AND POLICY MAKERS FOR IMPROVEMENT OF POLICIES STRATEGIC PLAN AND REGULATION REGARDING GROUNDWATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT, PROTECTION AND SUSTAINABILITY...................................................................................................................................................21
7. MAJOR FINDING OF GMW NETWORK AND POLICY RELEVANT OPTIONS....................................21
7.1 GROUNDWATER QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE CONCERNS...............................................................................21Groundwater qualitative concerns................................................................................................................21Groundwater quantitative concerns:.............................................................................................................22
7.2 GROUNDWATER TABLE LOWERING MODEL AND EARLY WARNING SIGNAL..............................................................22
8. DISSEMINATION OF RESULTS....................................................................................................................23
8.1 PRIME ISSUES ON WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION MANAGEMENT.........................................................................24
9. PITFALLS ON WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT............................................................................24
9.1 KNOWLEDGE AND CAPACITY BUILDING...............................................................................................................249.2 POOR INTEGRATED WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT.........................................................................................249.3 POOR INITIATE TECHNICAL OR CONSERVATION MEASURES.....................................................................................259.4 POOR SUPPORTING AND MOTIVATING MEASURES................................................................................................25
10. SOLUTIONS AND POLICY RELEVENT OPTIONS...................................................................................25
10.1 MANAGEMENT INITIATIVE AND IMPROVEMENT.................................................................................................2510.2 ENABLING ENVIRONMENT..............................................................................................................................2610.3 INITIATE TECHNICAL OR CONSERVATION MEASURE.............................................................................................2610.4 BUILDING CAPACITY.....................................................................................................................................2610.5 KNOWLEDGE BUILDING.................................................................................................................................27
Annex 1 an overview of the National Groundwater Monitoring Wells Network..................................................29
Annex 2 Location And Depth Of National Groundwater Monitoring Wells Network..........................................30
Table of Figures
FIGURE 1GPS (GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM).......................................................................................................8FIGURE 2 WATER LEVEL INDICATOR AND DIVER / DATA LOGGER...........................................................................9FIGURE 3 MODIFIED TUBE WELLS FOR SUSTAINABLE MEASUREMENT...................................................................9FIGURE 4 CONSTRUCTED AND MODIFIED WELL FOR LONG TIME RECORDING USING DIVER / DATA LOGGER.....10FIGURE 5 PHYSICAL PARAMETERS MEASUREMENT DEVICES................................................................................11FIGURE 6 BACTERIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS DEVICES...................................................................................................11FIGURE 7 CHEMICAL ANALYSIS MEASUREMENT DEVICES.....................................................................................12FIGURE 8 STERILIZE BOTTLE FOR TAKEN WATER SAMPLES...................................................................................12FIGURE 9TAKEN WATER SAMPLE AND CHEMICAL ANALYSIS PROCEDURE............................................................13FIGURE 10 WATER FLOW RATE EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS AND FIELD DATA COLLECTION.....................................13FIGURE 11 GEOPHYSICAL EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS AND FIELD DATA COLLECTION..............................................14FIGURE 12 AQUACHEM OR INTEGRATED WATER QUALITY DATA MANAGEMENT................................................15FIGURE 13ILLUSTRATES GROUNDEATER TABLE LOWERING CONCEPTUAL MODEL...............................................24
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Abbreviations
ACF Action Contre La Faim
AGS Afghan Geological Survey
BGR Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources
DACAAR Danish Committee for Aid to Afghan Refugees
DE Deepened Well
DW Dug Well
GAA German Agro Action
GMWs Groundwater Monitoring Wells
MMI Ministry of Mines and Industries
MRRD Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development
MWE Ministry of Water and Energy
SCA Swedish Committee for Afghanistan
SDC Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation
TW Tube Well
USGS United States Geological Survey
WFP World Food Program
ORP Oxidation Reduction Potential
SIDA Swedish International Development AgencySDC Swiss Agency for Development and CooperationGO Government OrganizationNGOs non Government organization
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1. INTRODUCTION
Afghanistan is covered by many rivers such as Amu Daria (North Eastern Basin), Helmand, Hari Rod-Mrghab (Western River Basin), Kabul/Indus (Eastern River Basin) and Northern. The perennial rivers flow marginally and most of small streams only flow for 3-4 months during rainy period and then dry out in the other months of a year. The rainfall is also highly uneven with respect to time and space, which affects the availability of surface water during a year. Therefore, groundwater is the major source and it is also playing a crucial role in food production, drinking water supply, drought mitigation, economic development and environmental security in Afghanistan. It does not, however, have a large potential for development as it is a finite resource and is also extremely vulnerable and sensitive to over-exploitation and contamination.
In Afghanistan, we have only basic knowledge about the geological setting, hydro geological conditions and groundwater resources due to lack of qualitative and quantitative monitoring, management and protection system as well as lack of established quality information system. Therefore, DACAAR has started to conduct long term groundwater monitoring in 21 provinces. We have 228 ground water monitoring wells (GWMWs) in Afghanistan. The GMWs All our monitoring well are covering approximately 80 percent of the river basins of Afghanistan. The depth of these wells ranges between 12-70 m, and most are drilled in the quaternary formation. The GMWs network has provided key information regarding qualitative and quantitative status of groundwater.
The results from the National GMW network data management, evaluation and mapping show that the groundwater storage in Afghanistan has progressively been depleted and the water quality has been deteriorating year by year. The depletion of groundwater and deterioration its water quality is "early warning" of potential threats to groundwater. There is an urgent need to improve groundwater resources by periodic monitoring and implementation of mitigation options by applying efficient and effective water related policies, strategies and regulation.
Reports were provided according to the GMWs network water qualitative and quantitative data analysis, management, assessments and mapping. Presentations were made to the Water Technical Working Group (WTWG), Water and Sanitation Sector Group (WSG), World Water Day and other national and international workshops and conferences for raising awareness and sharing information with water sector stakeholders in Afghanistan. The lack of awareness of groundwater discharge and recharge relationship and effectiveness of water conservation has led to wasteful use of precious groundwater resource and its over exploitation.
Now, the National GMWs network, integrated water resources data management and its information systems (databases) are the only nation-wide data source in Afghanistan. This
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GMWs network has supported water sector stakeholders for efficient and effective implementation of water supply projects and has also supported university students for bachelor and master degree research.
The national GMWs network financially supported by USGS, DANIDA and Royal Norwegian Embassy (RNE), Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA) and Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC)
2. BACKGROUND OF GROUNDWATER MONITORING WELLS NETWORKS
Since 1999, drought and over exploitation of groundwater for a variety of purposes (water supply, irrigation, industries, environmental security and others) have significantly lowered the groundwater table and depleted aquifers. As a result, many of the shallow wells, springs and karezis (traditional irrigation water supply system) have dried up. It created concern regarding the future reliability and sustainability of groundwater resources. Therefore, key water sector stakeholders and collaborators including MMI, MMRD, Kabul University, Polytechnic University, GAA, MWE, OXFAM, SCA, SDC, SOLIDARITY, US Embassy, USGS, USAID, Agromet, ACTED, ACF, AGS and WFP have committed to contribute towards the establishment of a national groundwater monitoring and management system for effective and efficient use of groundwater resources. DACAAR has continued this national program from 2005 to now. DACAAR has taken the following actions to improve the situation:
Collected and recorded 245 GMWs network quantative
Collected and recorded water related historical data (drilled well logs, well hydraulic, properties, water quality, groundwater and surface water investigation, hydrological data, meteorological data and geologic and hydro-geological characteristics).
Installed water points information system (WIS) database (1999) Provided standard formats for data collection Established water quality laboratory for physical, chemical and bacteriological analysis
(2003) Established National Groundwater Monitoring Wells Network throughout Afghanistan
(2004) Installed Integrated Water Quality and Quantity Data Management database (2008) Improved and developed knowledge, technical and management capacity of
groundwater monitoring staffs for data acquisition, graphic analysis, and management, evaluation, mapping and reporting.
3. MAIN OBJECTIVES
The following are the objectives of this program:
1. Select, construct, modify and develop GMWs network within the main river basins of Afghanistan to obtain geo-physical information for the sustainability of water supply project and future planning.
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2. Provide a long-term period of record to assess the impact of sustained groundwater withdrawals.
3. Develop technologies and tools for GMWs network data acquisition.
4. Enhance water related technical and data management capacity, information sharing and dissemination and awareness rising.
5. Establish and develop water quality and quantity data management and information system (database) for groundwater data management, evaluation, visualization mapping and reporting.
6. Collect historical and recent groundwater data for improvement of GMW data evaluation.
7. Provide groundwater related information and support to interested stakeholders
8. Identify critical and vulnerable aquifers that require protection.
9. Identify problematic areas from a water quantity and quality perspective that require further research to identify feasible alternative water resources.
10. Highlight water related problems to support decision makers and policy makers for improvement of policies, strategic plan and regulation regarding groundwater resources development, protection and sustainability.
4. RATIONALE OF THE STUDY
As continue growth of Afghan population and increasing urbanization trends, there is increasing pressure on the groundwater for various purposes (domestic water supply, irrigation, industrial and environmental security) which is basically unsustainable due to low thicknesses and low productivities of the respective aquifers. Frequency of drought and negative impact of climate change, over-exploitation of the natural resources. Fragmented institutional arrangement and inadequate government policies, strategies and regulations will cause further negative consequence to the groundwater quality and quantity. The current vulnerability of the aquifers indicates that future generations in Afghanistan will be faced a severe shortage of drinking water sources and also chances to land subsidence.
Groundwater is important component of water resources management and is playing critically important role in domestic water supply, irrigation, industrial and environmental security. The challenging part is a perception on the side of policy makers and planners who do not have priority on groundwater management in the national action plan. Therefore this program can help to generate information about groundwater and disseminate all stakeholders and collaborators to encourage them to be a part of conservation and management.
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The collected GWSs Network data would be stored, managed, interpreted, graphic visualized, mapped and provided the presentations and reports. The finding from GMWs network would be summarized in the presentations and reports. The information can be used by water sector policy makers and decision makers to craft appropriate policies, strategies and regulation for efficient planning, using, development, conservation and protection of groundwater resources.
5. METHODOLOGY AND MATERIAL
DACAAR has constructed, modified, installed and monitored 228 GMWs network within the River Basins of Afghanistan from March 2005 to June 2013. An overview of the National Groundwater Monitoring Wells network is presented in Annex 1 and location and depth of each monitoring well is presented in Annex 2.
5.1 On site measurements and water quality analysis period
The groundwater level and physical parameters like electrical conductivity (EC), pH, temperature and ORP of each GMW were measured on a monthly basis. All the field water level and EC data from the GMWs network were corrected, revised, processed then recorded in the national groundwater monitoring database for data storage, management, evaluation, and visualization, mapping and reporting.
The water quality (physical, chemical and bacteriological) of the GMWs was sampled and analyzed every sixth months. All the water quality data from the GMWs was corrected, revised, processed then recorded in the Integrated Water Quality Data Management database (AquaChem) for data graphic analysis, management, evaluation, visualization, mapping and reporting.
Findings vulnerable areas from the integrated water qualitative and quantitative data management, evaluation and mapping are significant for innovation and improvement of relevant water policies, strategies and regulations in Afghanistan.
5.2 Location of water points
The well locations were geo-referenced by GPS (Global Position System, see figure 1) for establishing a groundwater monitoring wells database that can be accessed through GIS maps.
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Figure 1GPS (GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)
5.3 Equipment and tools for water level measurement
The water tables of GMWs network have measured either manually using water level indicator or automatic long time recording using diver/data logger or SEBA (Fig. 2).
Figure 2 WATER LEVEL INDICATOR AND DIVER / DATA LOGGER
The selected groundwater monitoring wells modified for sustainable measurement (modified hand pumps installation on tube wells pipe from top to bottom below water level placed).
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Figure 3 MODIFIED TUBE WELLS FOR SUSTAINABLE MEASUREMENT
The selected groundwater monitoring wells also have drilled, constructed and modified for long time recording using diver/ data logger. These GMWs constructed in the public compound (most of them in the schools) and installed Divers for sustainable monitoring of groundwater.
Figure 4 CONSTRUCTED AND MODIFIED WELL FOR LONG TIME RECORDING USING DIVER / DATA LOGGER
Divers/data loggers (Fig. 5) are reliable instruments for automatic measurement and registration of the ground water level, salinity and temperature over a long time period. The Divers are installed in tube wells and after a while data are up-loaded to a Diver Mate, then downloaded from the Diver Mate to a PC.
The SEBA (Fig.2) water level recorder is a floater operated measuring instrument. The recorder is driven by clockwork using a small electrical motor and batteries. The SEBA water level recorder is a precise measuring instrument requiring careful placing and handling to guarantee long operation.
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5.4 Physical parameters measurement devices and tools
The physical parameters like electrical conductivity, temperature, pH and ORP were measured on site on a monthly basis using pH/conductivity meter dissolved oxygen kit and turbidity meter (Fig.6 ).
The bacteriological properties of the groundwater monitoring wells were determined on site using a micro bacteriological field test kit (Fig. 7).
Figure 6 BACTERIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS DEVICES
5.6 Chemical parameters measurement devices
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The chemical properties (parameters) of the groundwater monitoring wells were determined every six months using a Photometer 8000 (Fig.8).
Figure 7 CHEMICAL ANALYSIS MEASUREMENT DEVICES
5.7 Bottle using for taken water samples
The Sterilize Bottle is used for taken water samples for chemical analysis (Figure 9)
Figure 8 STERILIZE BOTTLE FOR TAKEN WATER SAMPLES
5.8 Soil sample
The soil samples is taken from the target area and and physically and chemically analysis for suitability of water quality for irrigation agriculture and other purposes (Figure 10 ).
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Figure 9TAKEN WATER SAMPLE AND CHEMICAL ANALYSIS PROCEDURE
5.9 Flow meter
DACAAR measurement of surface water (stream, karesis and spring) flow rate by using flow meter and its tools for field data acquisition, recording and documentation(Fig. 11)
Figure 10 WATER FLOW RATE EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS AND FIELD DATA COLLECTION
5. 10 Equipment and tools for geophysical survey
DACAAR performed a geophysical survey by using SYSCAL Pro resistivity meter and its tools for field data acquisition, recording and documentation (Fig. 11)
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Figure 11 GEOPHYSICAL EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS AND FIELD DATA COLLECTION
5.11 Data analysis related software package
5.11.1 AquaChem software
AquaChem is a software package developed specifically for graphical and numerical analysis and modeling of water quality data for water supply, suitability of water quality for irrigation agriculture. It features a fully customizable database of physical and chemical parameters and provides a comprehensive selection of analysis tools, calculations, and graphs for inter-preting water quality data.
AquaChem's data analysis capabilities cover a wide range of functionalities and calculations including unit conversions, charge balances, sample comparison and mixing, statistical sum-maries, trend analyses, and much more. AquaChem also comprises a customizable database of water quality standards with up to three different action levels for each parameter. Any samples exceeding the selected standard are automatically highlighted with the appropriate action level color for easily identifying and qualifying potential problems (Figure 12)
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Figure 12 AQUACHEM OR INTEGRATED WATER QUALITY DATA MANAGEMENT
5.11.2 HydroGeo Analyst software
Hydro GeoAnalyst (HGA) is the most comprehensive, and yet easy-to-use, environmental data management system, providing data validation, analysis, and visualization. The HGA package integrates a list of flexible and customizable database structures used around the world, complimented by state-of-the-art tools for data interpretation, statistical analysis, GIS mapping, data charting, and two- and three-dimensional visualizations (Fig.14).
Typical applications for HGA include: Regional water well management Contaminant site inventory Contaminant site inventory Geologic cross sections Public access to information Environmental site assessment Monitored natural attenuation Regional aquifer characterization and management Cross-boundary data sharing Aquifer vulnerability mapping
5.11.3 Aquifer test software
Aquifer test software is used for pumping test data analysis and evaluation for finding of aquifer parameters (hydraulic conductivity, transmissivity, stortivity and specific yield) for sustainable designing of water supply project.
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5.11.4 IPI2win software
IPI2win software is used for vertical Electrical Sounding(VES) data management and graphic evaluation for finding physical parameters (boundaries of strata, saturated and unsaturated zones, salinity and water level) of subsurface.
5.11.5 Res2dinvx32 software
Res2dinvx32 software is used for electrical profile (electrical resistivity) data management and graphic evaluation for finding physical parameters of subsurface.
5.12. Geographical information system
Geographical information system (GIS) is a set of tools for collecting, storing, retrieving, transferring and mapping of water points and GMWs data.
5.13 Acquiring information
a) Characteristics and conditions of water resource.b) Source of water supply.c) Sources of contamination (artificial/man-made and natural contaminations).d) Type of contamination.e) Seasonal/periodic variation of contamination.f) Seasonal/long term water table variation or continuing lowering water table.g) Causing the change of water table and water quality.h) Vulnerable area of water recourses.i) Recharge and discharge trend.
6. OUTCOMES OF THE PROJECT
6.1 National Groundwater Monitoring Wells Network Database (WSG_SWL) and Geophysical Data Information System
The National Groundwater Monitoring Wells (GMWs) Database and data information have been used for data recording, management and evaluation. The drilling well log records, water quantity and quality testing data and information system from the GMWs are significant information for DACAAR as well as water sector for efficient and effective groundwater development, management and protection in Afghanistan.
6.1.1 Acquisition of data
Water quality and quantity data have regularly collected from DACAAR’s GMWs network (2004- July 2013)
Water quality data from DACAAR/WASH projects (DACAAR/WASH, December,2004-July 2013)
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Water quality data from private sectors which were analyzed by DACAAR’s water quality laboratory (2004-July, 2013)
Primary groundwater survey data from Herat, Badghis, Faryab and Ghor provinces which were conducted by DACAAR (2004-08)
Well log design data which were drilled by DACAAR (2003-July, 2013) Physical parameter (water level, electrical conductivity, pH, and temperature) of 25,200 hand
pump wells data which were measured by DACAAR Water Points Inspection Teams. Geophysical survey data which were performed by DACAAR/WASH Meteorological dada which were conducted by Agromit. Hydro-geological study data which have conducted by MRRD, NORPLAN and DACAAR in Faryab
province. Exploration wells water quality and quantity data which were drilled by Ministry of Mine and
Industry (1973-81). Production wells water quality and quantity data which were drilled by Ministry of Water and
Power (1970-90) Previous groundwater investigations which were carried out by different organizations (Ministry
of Water and Power and Ministry of Public Work) in Afghanistan.
6.1.2 Database and Data Information System
The DACAAR water points and National GMWs network database and data information system are significant information about groundwater status (quality and quantity) in Afghanistan.
6.1.3 Water Points Information System
The water points information system (WIS) has used for improved water points data collection, recording, management, evaluation and mapping. DACAAR has installed more than 42,000 water points in Afghanistan. The well log, water quality and quantity data from these water points are significant information for future planning implementation of water supply project in Afghanistan.
6.1.4 Technical Capacity Building
a) Provide standard formats for field data acquisitionb) GMWs monthly reportc) New GMW selection d) Water quality analysise) Well log designf) Groundwater technical surveyg) River water measurementh) Production and observation well pumping test (time drawdown, time recovery) i) Geophysical surveyj) Well pumping test data k) Water points physical field measurement data
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l) Well completion report
6.2 Enhanced Data Management Capacity
Established and improved National GMWs network database (WSG_SWL) Established and developed integrated water quality data management database by
using AquaChem for integrated water quality data management, analysis, evaluation and modeling
Established and developed integrated water quantity data management database (production well data, exploration well data, pumping well data, geophysical investigation, metrological station data and hydrological station) by using HydroGeo Analyst for water quality and quantity data (environmental data system) management, analysis, evaluation, mapping, visualization, reporting and modeling.
Established and developed Aquifer test software for production and exploration wells pumping test data graphical analysis and evaluation.
Updated and improved AquaChem and HydroGeo Analyst based on improvements and developments by the relevant company.
Improved water points database Interpreted geophysical field using Res2 din vx64.exe and IPI2 win software Geological information using arc GIS.10
6.3. Enhance Technical Skills and Data Management Capacity
DACAAR facilitated training of staff in Afghanistan, India and the United Arab Emirates to enhance knowledge, skill and capability of GMW staffs for groundwater monitoring data acquisition, analysis, management, evaluation, mapping and visualization. The most significant of these training courses were:
Integrated water quality and quantity data management, using HydroGeo Analyst and AquaChem, conducted by Schlumberger Water Services in Abu Dhabi, UAE February 4-7, 2008, participation by M. Hassan Saffi Hydro-geologist;
Integrated Aquifer Characterization and Groundwater Modeling using HydroGeoAnalyst conducted by Schlumberger Water Services from October 25-27,2009 in Abu Dhabi, UAE participation by M. Hassan Saffi Hydro-geologist);
Training program on Water quality evaluation Monitoring and Mapping drinking water source from Nov.25 to Dec. 24 2009 in Shriram Institute, Delhi India participation by ShirHabib.
Aquifer test for finding well hydraulic properties conducted by Schlumberger Water Services from February 4-7, 2008 in Abu Dhabi, UAE participated by M. Hassan Saffi Hydro-geologist).
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Hydrogeology and groundwater concept from June1-5,2008, conducted by U.S Geological in Afghan Geological Survey Kabul Afghanistan participated by M. Hassan Saffi Hydro-geologist.
GIS 9.3 and GIS 9.2, Khawaran Institute in Kabul Afghanistan from2 April 2009- 04 June 2009 participated by M. Hassan Saffi Hydro-geologist).
Database(June1-5,2008, conducted by U.S Geological in Afghan Geological Survey Kabul Afghanistan participated by M. Hassan Saffi Hydro-geologist).
Map info and Arc GIS Training from 01 to 30 Dec 2009 in Geo Map Systems (P) Ltd in Somajiguda, Hyderabad, India participated by Ahmad Jawid Hydro-geologist;
Geophysics Training for investigation of groundwater in MRRD Kabul, Afghanistan on 01 to 30 April 2009 participated by Ahmad Jawid Hydro-geologist;
Basic Hydrogeology conducted by Lars Matthes from Technical University Berlin, Invent 11-22 August 2005, Kabul University, Kabul Afghanistan.
6.4. Establish and Develop Water Quality and Quantity Data Management and Information System
The scientific presentations were provided from GMWs network integrated water quality and quantity data analysis, management, assessment and mapping. They are as follows:
Groundwater at risk in Afghanistan 27 May, 2007, Water Technical Working Group (WTWG), DACAAR conference room, Kabul, Afghanistan.
Fluoride Contamination in Afghanistan’s Groundwater 28 April, 2007, WTWG DACAAR conference room, Kabul, Afghanistan.
Application of Reverse Osmosis Desalination Plant for the areas where groundwater are saline July, 2009, Water Supply and Sanitation (WATSAN) meeting, MRRD conference hall, Kabul, Afghanistan.
Groundwater potential and water quality problem in Faryab province 27 November, 2009, DACAAR training hall, Faryab, Afghanistan.
Water Quality concern in Afghanistan 29 March, 2010 WATSAN meeting MRRD conference hall, Kabul, Afghanistan.
Water quality problem in Afghanistan in world water day, 24 March, 2010, MRRD conference hall, Kabul, Afghanistan.
Groundwater and quality concern in Kabul Basin, 01 May, 2012, Ministry of water and Energy conference room, Kabul, Afghanistan.
Water resources quantities and qualitative problem in Faryab province, 06 October 2012, Faryab provincial conference room, Faryab, Afghanistan.
Water resources potential, quality problem, challenges and solution in Afghanistan, 27 February, 2013, WATSAN meeting MRRD conference hall, Kabul, Afghanistan.
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Water resources potential, quality problem, challenges and solution in the North Afghanistan, 26 March, 2013, Humanitarian North regional meeting, UNICIF Mazar, Balkh Afghanistan
Water resources potential, quality problem, challenges and solution in Afghanistan, 05 June, 2013, Kabul polytechnics university conference hall, Kabul, Afghanistan.
6.5. Collect Historic and Recent Groundwater Data Management
DACAAR has collected historical and recent groundwater and surface water data which were investigated by the government and non government water sector organizations. These data are useful to carry out new research, future planning and implementation of water supply project in Afghanistan. The data is available in DACAAR database and dada information system.
The scientific reports were provided from GMWs network integrated water quality and quantity data analysis, management, assessment and mapping. All reports are available in our website: www.dacaar.org. The following are the main reports:
Groundwater resources at risk in Afghanistan (June 2007) Occurrence of Fluoride contamination in Afghanistan (June 2007) Water resources concern in Qala-i-Nawcentre of Badghis Province (July 2007) Groundwater natural resources and quality concern in Kabul Basin (May 2010) Integrated Groundwater Study Approach in Astana valley, ShirinTagab District of Faryab
Province (June 2010) Integrated Groundwater Study Approach in Jalaier valley, ShirinTagab District of Faryab
Province (June 2010) Quality of water suitable for irrigation in ShirinTagab (in Faryab province) and Sholgara
(in Balkh province) November 2012 Geophysical study in Tangi Returnee camp, Behsud district of Nangrahar province, April
2011. Geophysical study in Cheheldukhtran (Maya Khil) village, ChaharAsib district of Kabul
Province, April 2012. Geophysical study in Sholgara district of Balkh province, August 20011. Geophysical study in Camp Sakhi Town, Nahr-e-Shhi district of Balkh province,
December 2012. Geophysical study in Sarband-i-Haji Talabai village, Sholgara district of Balkh province Water resources potential, quality problem, challenges and solution in Afghanistan, July
2013.
6. 6 Provide Groundwater Related Information and Support to Interested Stakeholders
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National GMWs database and data information system supported Government Organization(GO) and non government organization(NGOs) by providing and dissemination data, presentation, report and training.
6.6.1 DACAAR program
National GMWs database and data information system are supported by DACAAR program . This system becomes valuable in terms of the sustainability of water supply project and making effective and efficient planning and implementation water supply and natural resources management projects.
6.6.2. Supporting NGOs and GO
Supported WSG, UNICEF and Afghan National Standards Authority (ANSA) for making National Drinking Water Standard
Disseminated Data and information Supported 10 students from Kabul University, Balkh and Hirat Universities regarding
access to data and technical advice for their BSc and Master degree Supported MRRD regarding water supply project in Nimroze province
6.6.3 Enhancing Capacity of GO and NGO
Training of Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development (MRRD) Water Quality analysis staffs regarding integrated water quality data management for irrigation and drinking water
Training of Ministry of Agriculture Irrigation and Livestock (MAIL) Water Quality analysis staffs regarding integrated water quality data management for suitability of water quality for irrigation agriculture
Training of Faryab province GO and NGO staffs regarding WQ and GP.
6.7 Identify Critical and Vulnerable Aquifers that Require Protection
DACAAR has provided Geological and Hydro-geological information which were provided by Afghan Geological Survey (AGS), United State Geological Survey and other Government and non-government organizations. Now DACCAR has own Geographical Information System (GIS) based on geological spatial shape data files for Afghanistan. This information is important for the better understanding of geological information on the relationships between water chemistry and rocks.
6.8 Identify the Problematic Areas from a Water Quantity Perspective that Require Further Research to Identify Feasible Alternative Water resources.
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DACAAR identified critical and vulnerable aquifers in Faryab, Kabul, Herat Jallalabad and Mazar-e-Sharif by GMWs network data evaluation, mapping and report. These aquifers are waiting for the protection. For more information please visit DACAAR website: www.dacaar.org.
6.9 Highlight Water Related Problems to Support Decision Makers and Policy Makers for Improvement of Policies Strategic Plan and Regulation Regarding Groundwater Resources Development, Protection and Sustainability.
DACAAR identified problematic areas from a water quantity perspective that require further research to identify feasible alternative water resources by GMWs network data, evaluation, mapping and report. For more information review the report “Water resources potential, quality problem, challenges and solution in Afghanistan, July 2013” which is accessible in the DACAAR Website: www.dacaar.org.
7. MAJOR FINDING OF GMW NETWORK AND POLICY RELEVANT OPTIONS
7.1 Groundwater qualitative and quantitative concerns
The main groundwater qualitative and quantitative concerns are following:
Continuing lowering groundwater table Depletion of groundwater natural storage (no steady state water balance or negative
change in natural storage) Continuing water logging (changing saturation zones to unsaturated zones) Exceeded discharge trend and deteriorating water quality Imbalanced streams/river and aquifer interaction (effluent and influent) Most of kareze, large diameters wells and springs dried up
Note: The detail information regarding main groundwater qualitative and quantitative concerns can find in the report on " Water resources potential, quality problem, challenges and solution in Afghanistan, July 2013". This report is accessible in the DACAAR website: www.dacaar.org.
7.2 Groundwater Table Lowering Model and Early Warning Signal
The groundwater table lowering has occurred in the following two steps:
The groundwater table dropped due to low recharge, over-pumping and also imbalanced stream and aquifer interaction. As a result the yield of springs and karezes are in decreasing trends. A new equilibrium of water level is reached after digging of karezes and shallow wells.
A new equilibrium of water level is no stable and water table continuously declines due to low recharge and over- pumping. As results, the most springs karezes and shallow wells are dried up. This trend created other equilibrium of the water level, in condition that the karezes and shallow wells are replaced by deep tube wells.
Agriculture activities are vanished in the country where karezes, springs and shallow wells dried out. Other feasible options such as traditional or paddle irrigation and rural water supply system by tube wells for the alternative is basically not possible because of high operation costs and the low productivity. This trend has directly negative impact on socio-economic and environmental sustainability and also contributed in the displacement of inhabitants.
As country population continues to grow up, there is increasing demand in exploiting more volume of groundwater for various purposes, which causes negative consequences on the groundwater quality and quantity. The trends of over-exploitation of groundwater is serious challenge for our socio-economic development and environmental security. This vulnerability of the aquifer may not be reversible and it leads the country towards severe shortage of drinking water.
Current fragment institutional arrangements and management tools, poor formulation of policies and strategies and ineffective regulations cannot solve this alarming situation. It is urgently required to apply effective policies, strategies for sustainable groundwater management, using, development, protection and conservation.
Figure 13 illustrates groundwater table lowering conceptual model and early warning signal which is vital to protect groundwater for further deterioration.
Figure 13ILLUSTRATES GROUNDEATER TABLE LOWERING CONCEPTUAL MODEL
8. DISSEMINATION OF RESULTS
Promoting the efficient sustainable and beneficial use of water resources.
Maximizing the role of groundwater toward socio-economic development, environmental security and poverty alleviation.
Preventing qualitative and quantitative deterioration status of groundwater bodies.
Transferring information to water sector policy makers and decision makers for efficient and effective use of water resources, conservation and protection.
Promoting new researchers and university students on groundwater issues.
Promoting application of appropriate technologies for groundwater development planning and implementation
Reflecting the importance of the groundwater, and the aspects needing future understanding and improvement.
8.1 Prime issues on water supply and sanitation management
The national coverage to access safe drinking water, environmental sanitation and hygienic practices are relatively lower in the world due to myopic management issues. The following are the prime concerns on water supply and environmental sanitation sector:
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No clear vision and strategies for immediate and future water resources protection plan. Progressively increasing imbalance between availability of water volume and daily
consumption. The government has no specific norms and guidelines or licensing system on the drilling
wells per unit area. Limited technical options for water treatment, availability of drinking water sources and
ground water storage system. Cross contamination in wells due to poor well site selection and construction. Lack of effective operation and maintenance of the water supply system. Provision of safe drinking water in the rural areas is a challenge for millions of rural
inhabitants around the country. Inadequate skilled and well equipped private sectors in the implementation of water
projects. Insufficient awareness raising about water source conservation.
9. PITFALLS ON WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
9.1 Knowledge and capacity building
Poor investment on the production of skilled hydrological and hydro-geological manpower.
Weak integration, coordination, data collection, information sharing and dissemination on water resources management sector.
Poor investment on alternative water sources research, assessment and consultancy services.
Lack of monitoring, management, development, protection and sustainability on water resource sector.
9.2 Poor integrated water resources management
Water resources monitoring system (qualitative and quantitative point of views) Database and data information system National water quality standard(primary and secondary) and national water resources
regulation act (both surface and groundwater) Water safety plan (quality control and quality assurance) Policy relevant research and alternative solution Water resources management, development, protection and sustainability Environmental security
9.3 Poor initiate technical or conservation measures
Groundwater recharge by surface water Rainwater harvesting Installation of desalination plant where the areas have saline water
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9.4 Poor supporting and motivating measures
Low awareness level of the inhabitants on the importance of water(qualitative and quantities)
Encourage public participation No emphasis on public awareness campaigns Poor integrated water resources management instruments Fragment institutional arrangement in water resources management Poor creation of enabling environment for effective policies and strategies for water
resources monitoring, management, development, protection and sustainability. Poor formulation of enforcement legislation.
10. SOLUTIONS AND POLICY RELEVENT OPTIONS
The main solution and policy relevant options are:
10.1 Management initiative and improvement
National water resources monitoring system (qualitative and quantitative) Develop and enhance stream gage meteorological networks to estimates a water
availability Develop a snow/glacier hydrology information system Database and data information system Initiate management where problems are evident regardless of data
limitations. National water quality standard(primary and secondary) or national water resources
regulation act (both surface and groundwater) Water safety plan (quality control and quality assurance) Availability of financial resources. Encouragement of stakeholders participation Mitigate imbalance between availability and supply Water resources management, development, protection and sustainability. Define water resources potential (availability), supply and demand. Define sustainability of water resources for socio-economic development and
environmental security.
10.2 Enabling environment
Establish coordination organization within water sector and moving towards an enabling environment to make policies, strategies and legislation for integrated water resources management.
Reform in within the current institutional framework to implement the policies, strategies and legislation
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Setting up the management tools (data management, evaluation, mapping and visualization)which can help to make policy relevant better decision(required by the institutions to do their job).
10.3 Initiate technical or conservation measure
Groundwater recharge by surface water during peak flowing for aquifer recharge and recovery (directing surface water into pits, trench, boreholes and infiltration basin)
Rain water harvesting Construction of infiltration ponds Construction of water storage infrastructure (cheek dams, trenches and capturing water
by making storage reservoir) Installation of desalination plan where the areas have saline water Raising awareness on efficient water usage Construct standards water wells(improper or non-standard water well construction
promote, facilitate contamination to the groundwater) Promotion of water uses from the non-conventional water resources (rainwater
harvesting, waste water treatment) Formulate regulation Farwell drilling and groundwater abstraction.
10.4 Building capacity
Investment in building of hydro geological expertise Increase the number of water sector professionals Increase investment in water resources management, monitoring infrastructure and
research
10.5 Knowledge building
Initiate practically oriented scientific surface and groundwater studies that focus on groundwater and surface water interaction, availability, recharge characteristic, quality, sustainability and management alternative.
Policy relevant research and alternative solution Water resource data management, assessment, mapping and evaluation and
visualization for future water resources management, development, protection and sustainability.
Technology transfer, research development must take place to transfer this knowledge on to the practical field level of restoring and re-establishing old practices
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Stress on public awareness campaign, role of women, and the community participation towards preserving groundwater from pollution and depletion.
Initiate management where problems are evident regardless of data limitations.
Initiate practically oriented scientific surface and groundwater studies that focus on groundwater and surface water interaction, availability, recharge characteristic, quality, sustainability and management alternative
Develop an aquifer classification system and address vulnerable aquifer from contamination
11. RECOMMENDATIONS
National GMWs network installation experiences, knowledge, technical and data management capacity, standards formats for field data collection, measurement tools and devices, water quality analysis tools and devices, integrated water quality and quantity data management, evaluation, mapping and reporting tools are significant achievements on water resources management sector in Afghanistan. These efforts require more time, capacity and investment. Therefore, it is suggested to empower and expand the National GMWs network to be national wide GMWs networks and integrated water resource data management and information system.
Groundwater resources qualitative and quantitative findings (early warning signals) from National GMWs network can support policy and decision maker to apply effective and efficient policies, strategic plans and regulation for groundwater resources management, development, protection and sustainability.
The National GMWs network database (wsg_SWL) framework shows that the water sector stakeholders contribute their efforts for efficient using of water resources through coordination, data collection, monitoring and management, sharing information, information dissemination and technology transferring. Now, the contribution and coordination efforts for efficient and effective using of water resources are very poor and a cause of failure of most water supply projects in Afghanistan. Therefore, it is suggested to strengthen the coordination and cooperation system for enhancing capacity building, data collection, monitoring and management, sharing information, information dissemination and technology for transferring through applying effective policies, strategies and regulation.
Improper and low quality construction of wells, contributes and promotes contamination of groundwater throughout the nation. Therefore, it is suggested to provide a framework for construction of standard wells to prevent groundwater resources from further contamination.
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GMWs finding shows that the groundwater natural storage has been depleted and water quality is deteriorating. There is also increasing demand due to population growth, agricultural needs, industrialization and socio-economic development and environmental security. Therefore, it is suggested to develop appropriate strategy to protect groundwater resources from further deterioration.
Coping strategies by the cooperation of national and international agencies to be developed for integrated water resources management, evaluation and mapping to adapt the climate change impacts.
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Annex 1 an overview of the National Groundwater Monitoring Wells Network
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Annex 2 Location And Depth Of National Groundwater Monitoring Wells Network
Update List of Groundwater Monitoring Wells July 2013
GWM_ID Province District Village LON LAT Water Point Type WellDepth (m)140 Badghis Qala-e Naw First Area 63.12362 34.98465 TW 35141 Badghis Qala-e Naw Laman 63.10345 34.75230 TW 25150 Badghis Qala-e Naw LamanZadshay 63.11654 34.83383 TW 30152 Badghis AbKamari Arbab Abdul Hamid 63.05374 34.99268 TW 37166 Badghis Qala-e Naw Airport 63.12270 34.99134 DW 35174 Badghis Qala-e Naw Qarghayto 63.15876 34.97461 TW 35202 Badghis Qala-e Naw Tagab Ismail 63.09411 34.96266 TW 35252 Badghis Qala-e Naw Haji Abad 63.12115 35.00038 TW 50116 Baghlan Pul-e Khumri Zamankhil 68.68722 35.99419 TW 27119 Baghlan Doshi Sangisurakh 68.76635 35.75794 DW 23122 Baghlan Doshi Dosti 68.76635 35.75794 DW 23233 Baghlan Doshi Center of Doshi District 68.63688 35.60478 DW 6.4
1 Kabul ShakarDara Qala-e-MuradBiek 69.07902 34.65884 TW 232 Kabul Kabul Kabul - DACAAR office 69.16004 34.55275 TW 14.64 Kabul Khak-e Jabar Khurdkabul 69.38399 34.38887 TW 52
12 Kabul Bagrami Gulbuta 69.22864 34.47863 TW 40.515 Kabul Mir BachaKot Shekhan 69.12266 34.72940 TW 3216 Kabul DehSabz Kata khel 69.35124 34.60985 TW 44.517 Kabul Char Asiab Chaman 69.17281 34.35407 TW 2618 Kabul Kabul Char Qala 69.10533 34.48651 DE 30
106 Kabul Kabul Kabul University Engineering Faculty 69.12299 34.51930 TW -143 Kabul QaraBagh QurQuol 69.16652 34.84225 TW 21170 Kabul QaraBagh Masjed Omar Farooq 69.16601 34.88995 DW 25185 Kabul Sarobi Gundikaly 69.74276 34.60920 DW 30213 Kabul QaraBagh Bagharak 69.16372 34.81847 TW 35214 Kabul Kalakan MasjedAtafaq 69.14922 34.77303 TW 34229 Kabul Paghman Qala-e Abdul Ali 69.03374 34.51889 DE 28
186 Parwan Bagram Bagram city 69.25758 34.69792 DW 14212 Parwan Bagram Shaka 69.25027 34.95955 TW 30246 Samangan Hazrat-e Sultan Center of District 67.89364 36.45701 TW 35247 Samangan Hazrat-e Sultan Gadi 67.89185 36.46904 TW 17.5