| Abstrakt: |
Groundwater resources are essential for providing drinking water and irrigation in Afghanistan. However, the rising demand due to population growth and climate change is putting increasing pressure on these resources. Despite this, the lack of organized groundwater monitoring and comprehensive long-term data on groundwater storage fluctuations remains a significant challenge. This study aims to address this issue by offering insights into groundwater storage fluctuations and providing a thorough overview of Afghanistan's groundwater situation. The study aims to delineate and explain the variations in groundwater storage within Afghanistan. Additionally, it seeks to evaluate the accuracy of the GRACE model's projected groundwater storage anomalies. By leveraging the GLDAS database, the study also explores several potential factors influencing changes in groundwater storage. In Kabul, where an in-situ groundwater network and monitoring wells are available for validation, the study confirms the spatio-temporal analysis of groundwater storage. The findings indicate a significant decline in groundwater storage across the region, peaking in February 2005 (exceeding 10 cm) and reaching its lowest point in January 2017 (more than -15 cm). The most affected areas are the Harirud-Murghab, Helmand, and Kabul Basins, with a total change of approximately 116 mm. The northern part of the Helmand River Basin (HRB) remains relatively unaffected. Various factors contribute to changes in groundwater storage, including reduced precipitation in the Harirud-Murghab Basin, climate change, and geological conditions. In the Kabul River Basin (KRB), urbanization, population growth, and excessive groundwater extraction play significant roles. Additionally, the study suggests a direct correlation between precipitation variability and groundwater storage changes nationwide. |
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