Application of different aquifer parameters for groundwater potential evaluation-implications for resources development

Groundwater potential (GWP) of an aquifer refers to availability of extractable groundwater resources. GWP of aquifers is commonly estimated in terms of aquifer yield (Y), normalised yield (Y-N), specific capacity (Sp-C) and productivity (P-A). These aquifer parameters have certain advantages and limitations in assessing GWP. Significance of using these parameters as estimators is lying with their ability to change the rank and status of GWP of different aquifers when compared. Therefore, use of different estimators may lead to contradictory status of GWP. To examine this, in this study, GWP of aquifers has been evaluated using the aforesaid aquifer parameters, and compared. Applicability and suitability of these parameters have been examined and discussed in this article with the help of hypothetical examples and through a case study from the composite crystalline aquifers of the Aravalli Terrain, India. Through logical deduction, the study infers that productivity is a superior measure for GWP as it provides a comparison of groundwater resources among aquifers not only on the basis of rate of water discharge but also in terms of sustainability of groundwater resource.