Groundwater potential zone mapping of Swat District, northern Pakistan: an application of remote sensing and geographic information system

Groundwater resources are vital, particularly in arid regions of Pakistan, yet current assessments of groundwater potential in this area (District Swat) remain inadequate. This study aims to evaluate the Groundwater Potential Zone (GWPZ) of the district, employing an integrated approach such as Remote Sensing (RS), Geographical Information System (GIS), and multi-criteria decision-making, Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). Various thematic maps were generated and analysed in ArcGIS multivariate environment. Based on their spatial distribution and relative influence on groundwater recharge potential capabilities, different weights were assigned using AHP. The finalised theme of each parameter with its assigned score was further processed in a weighted overlay, resulting in the demarcation of the entire district into three distinct potential zones: low potential (6.88%) with water table depth greater than 30 metres, moderate potential (77.21%) between 10 and 30 metres, and high potential (16%) with water table depth less than 10 metres. The accuracy of the results was cross-checked with a water table map generated from the field assessments, and it showed a strong correlation between the simulated and observed data. This research project provides scientific insight into the distribution and management of the groundwater resources for the long-term development and conservation of water-deprived regions.