Status of groundwater resource potential and its quality at Kabul, Afghanistan: a review

Groundwater is an integral part of water resources. Groundwater has a vital role in water use in Kabul, Afghanistan. Nowadays, it is the only available source for water supply in Kabul city. The study aimed to comprehensively review the spatiotemporal groundwater distribution, physicochemical and bacteriological specifications of groundwater, and its consumption in Kabul, Afghanistan. Based on developed specific search terms to locate appropriate literature, the cited material is evaluated for relevance and reliability. Due to several causes, the mean annual decrease in groundwater levels between 2008 and 2016 is 1.7 m. About 33% of supply wells are not in operation due to declining groundwater tables. According to most reports, the physicochemical and bacteriological contents of groundwater in Kabul city exceeds World Health Organization (WHO) and National Drinking Water Quality Standard (NDWQS) limits. Individuals use water through four significant suppliers: Private wells, private suppliers, public water supply, and public wells. The study provides further insight into groundwater's current condition, and some recommendations are also presented to improve the sustainable development of groundwater.