Modelling of Long Term Arsenic Migration in Groundwater

Location

Narayganj-Narsingdi Area in Bangladesh

Type of Project

Development of a pilot Arsenic Management Model

Period of Study

Ongoing since September 1997

Client

Description :

High arsenic concentration in groundwater has posed a serious threat to the country - the health of 50 million people is at risk., Groundwater wells is the chief source for 92% of the total drinking water supply. The origin of this Arsenic contamination has not yet known. However, leading researchers believe that excessive withdrawal of groundwater in the past two decades has triggered the release of arsenic in the geology.

SWMC in association with DHI and VKI of Denmark, BUET and other national institutions commenced a three-phase research project. The main objective of the study is to form a basis for modelling the related physical processes and formulate a watershed management strategy using mathematical modelling techniques

which would guide to establish methodologies for long-term mitigation measures.

The modelling studies suggested few long-term actions for sustainable solution which lie with:

a) proper utilisation of surface water;

b) rainfall harvesting and

c) proper watershed management.