Delineation of shallow Deccan basaltic aquifers from Maharashtra using aerial photointerpretation

The Deccan basaltic lava flows form shallow unconfined aquifers tapped for irrigation by large diameter dugwells. Aerial photographs form an important utility in the hydrogeological mapping of these shallow basaltic aquifers. Aerial photographs provide extensive information regarding the agricultural landuse in the agricultural sector from the Deccan basaltic terrain of Maharashtra. A zonation based on the cultivation, patterns brings out, quite clearly, the relationship between the agriculture in the area and the irrigation potential of the aquifer(s). This, relationship itself points to the inherent heterogeneity of the Deccan basaltic aquifers. Cultivation patterns/signatures that emerge through aerial photointerpretation can form the basis for a systematic hydrogeological mapping leading to aquifer characterisation of Deccan basalts, especially in regions where rock surfaces are not, directly exposed (such as is evident in many agricultural belts of Maharashtra state).