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Evaluation of Alborz province hardrocks using APLRFW model and fuzzy method to determine areas prone to exploitation of groundwater resources

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Geology, Faculty of Earth Sciences, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran

2 Ph.D., Department of Applied Geology, Faculty of Earth Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran; Expert of Fannavaran Tarh Jame Consulting Engineers, Tehran, Iran.

3 Director of Kusar Dam, Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Regional Water Authority, Yasuj, Iran.

10.22077/jaaq.2025.8583.1085

Abstract

Identification and exploitation of groundwater resources in hard formations are critical as primary options for water supply in various regions. This study aims to assess the groundwater potential in hard formations in northern Alborz province and evaluate the feasibility of exploiting these resources, taking into account both social and environmental factors. The study area includes the hard formations of Alborz province, covering 3,011.5 square kilometers. Data related to lithology, slope, drainage density, elevation, fault density, and rainfall were initially extracted. These datasets were then weighted using the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and fuzzy inverse operator (AND). Subsequently, the APLRFW model was developed to simulate the groundwater potential in the region. The results indicate that the highest groundwater potential is found in the central areas of northern Alborz, particularly along the border region between Tehran and Karaj, as well as the northern parts of Qazvin. This area comprises 21% of the total study region, or 41.632 square kilometers. In contrast, the southern part of the region, despite having favorable water yield, is not recommended for exploitation due to the presence of the Upper Red Formation, which negatively impacts water quality. To validate the model, raster layers of spring locations and geophysical data were utilized, and the findings demonstrated a strong agreement with the model’s results.

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References
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Journal of Aquifer and Qanat
Volume 5, Issue 2 - Serial Number 9
March 2025
Pages 19-40
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