Application of electrical resistivity method in delineating aquifer properties along with vulnerability mapping in Gujrat district and surrounding areas of Punjab province, Pakistan

A resistivity investigation was directed to assure aquifer properties besides delineation of vulnerability in the Gujrat District and its surroundings areas of Punjab province, Pakistan using seventy-seven (77) Schlumberger array Vertical Electric Sounding (VES). The data was processed in IPI2WIN computer software for true resistivity and thickness of layers. The available borehole information demonstrates presence of best top clay, sandy clay, dry sandy soil and gravel. The prolific ground water zones (controlled by H-type resistivity curve) have been recognized in the north-eastern, southern and additionally western part of the study area. The thickness of aquifers fluctuates remarkably 20-210 m from place to place. The aquifer vulnerability map delineates the impermeability of overburden clay layer. Values < 0 mhos show poor to weak protective capacity zone with risk of defilements, while 0-5 mhos demonstrates good protective zones. The outcomes were additionally checked by anisotropy mapping and chemical investigation of well's water samples of the study area. The outcomes of anisotropy values show that Nither town and southern halves of the study area have a good protective capacity to infiltration while remaining area is vulnerable to infiltrating fluids. The water from this area is found polluted with chlorides, nitrates and sulphates salts.