An integrated geospatial and analytical hierarchy process approach for sustainable water management in the Amravati District, India

Groundwater is crucial for agriculture, domestic use, and industry. This study represents groundwater potential zones in the Amravati district,Maharashtra, India, using the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and multi-influencing factor (MIF) techniques. These techniques areemployed for a detailed spatial analysis, which is essential for sustainable groundwater management. The study integrates data layers includinglithology, geomorphology, land use/land cover, drainage density, lineament density, rainfall, soil, elevation, and slope to evaluate thegroundwater potential. The resulting groundwater potential map classifies the area into five categories: poor, fair, moderate, good, and excellentbased on groundwater availability. The study reveals that 9% of the area has poor groundwater potential, 37% fair, 28% moderate, 13%good, and 13% excellent. This map is instrumental for stakeholders and policymakers, as it aids in resource allocation and the formulation ofsustainable groundwater management strategies. Through the application of AHP and MIF techniques, this study effectively maps thegroundwater potential, providing an essential tool for evidence-based decision-making for water resource management in the Amravatidistrict.