2022, Vol. 4, Issue 2, Part C

Urbanization is a major geomorphic process affecting both surface and groundwater systems. The development of cities inevitably increases paved surfaces and roofs (termed impervious cover) and storm drains. Installation of a network of subsurface structures, including utility systems, is another necessary aspect of modern cities. Urbanization alters topography and natural vegetation, stream flows and flooding characteristics, temperatures both above and below the land surface. Major physical changes to the groundwater system include changes in water table elevation, changes in permeability field created by construction and utility system emplacement and altered groundwater recharge. Groundwater in Kabul city is in serious risk due to over obstruction, severe contamination by sewage and lack of recharge from participation as grounds natural form has changed to paved streets, roads and roofs which prevents storm water infiltration. In recent years Kabul has changed to a populated and rapid urbanized city worldwide which 85% of water supply in this city rely on groundwater which mainly obstruct from private shallow wells, beside many private water supply companies and households have deep wells with a depth of more than 200 m. Lack of control and policies from government or corruption makes facing this vital issue more challenging. Also lack of Sanitation wastewater collection, disposal and treatment system in the city and seepage of wastewater and directly absorbed by ground making it the main source of pollution for groundwater.

This research analysis describes the status and trends of Kabul city groundwater system and assess new solutions to meet future groundwater conservation. Results from analyzed data shows that groundwater levels are declining quickly (2.1 m per year) which district number 11, 4, 12, 13, 18 and some other districts are more affected to groundwater depletion than others. This pollution exceeds the maximum permissible values determined by WHO, ANSA and other standards.