Impact of pumping in open pit mining on groundwater flow: a case study

Abstract

The groundwater flow behaviour was analysed during pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon seasons. At first, the groundwater model was analysed in the steady state, and then the same was applied in the transient state to predict the spatio-temporal behaviour of groundwater in the region. Transient flow model was also developed to estimate the potential impact of pumping of groundwater due to mining activities. The results of the analysis show that the model is most sensitive to hydraulic conductivity and recharge parameters. Two scenarios are considered to predict aquifer responses under varied conditions of groundwater abstraction. 2010 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.