Characteristics of the aquifer system using Dar-Zarrouk parameters at Doiwala block in Dehradun district, Uttarakhand, India

This study evaluates groundwater potential zones using Dar–Zarrouk parameters derived from Vertical Electrical Sounding data. According to the findings, there are 5-10 underlying lithological strata, ranging in thickness from 13 to 64.2 m (average 34.9 m) and aquifer resistivity from 13.4 to 281 Ωm (average 102.8 Ωm). The heterogeneity of the aquifer is reflected in the moderate empirical correlation (R2 = 0.56) between hydraulic conductivity and aquifer resistivity. The study area of southern, central, and northwest regions were identified as having high groundwater potential zones. Significant thickness (50–70 m), strong hydraulic conductivity (7–11 m/day), transmissivity (300–550 m²/day), and anisotropy (0.6–1) are all present in these shallow aquifers (45–50 m depth). These high-permeability zones are advantageous for groundwater development, but because pollutants migrate quickly, they are more susceptible to contamination. This emphasizes the need for sustainable extraction methods, frequent monitoring, and protective management techniques.