Applications of Remote Sensing and GIS in Water Quality Monitoring and Remediation: A State-of-the-Art Review

Recent advancements in the field of remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS) have made it possible to conduct large-scale water remediation studies. Using improved spectral and spatial resolution sensors and geospatial modeling techniques, water quality parameters such as chlorophyll- a, algae bloom, turbidity, suspended sediments, and mineral content in water bodies including groundwater are being monitored at low cost and with greater accuracy. Integration of these technologies with field monitoring have successfully aided in identification of contamination zones and sources of contamination, and for developing strategies for remediation. High-resolution mapping of contamination zones will further help in allocating remediation efforts to the critically affected areas. This chapter investigates the status of ongoing research in the domain of remote sensing and GIS for water quality monitoring and management, and remediation of water resources.