Integrative Approach for Groundwater Pollution Risk Assessment Coupling Hydrogeological, Physicochemical and Socioeconomic Conditions in Southwest of the Damascus Basin

Groundwater is the main resource for irrigation and drinking supply in most parts of Syria, as Mediterranean countries, however this suffers from mismanagement. In study area (northeast Mt. Hermon), lack information makes water management extremely difficult. Assessing groundwater pollution risk essential issue resources management, especially regions where complex interaction between climate, geology, geomorphology, hydrogeology, scarcity mismanagement exist. This complexity leads to significant complication determining studied system. present work, we adopted an integrative approach assess area. methodology based on analysis hydrogeological characteristics aquifer systems available about socioeconomic context physiochemical conditions that might affect allowed us delineate map concerning parameters/indicators. The degree was assessed sum average rating these parameters indicators each subarea. Typically, very high index identified over Quaternary/Neogene horizon, i.e., shallow unconfined lower part Jurassic aquifer. two parts, majority anthropogenic activities are concentrated. Low found outcropping low permeable Quaternary basalt at Southern A moderate low/moderate permeability silt, clay marly limestone-rich horizons major Neogene outside intersected zones with Paleogene formations. spatial shows 50% characterized being index. Hence, overall natural protective capacity still poor. demonstrates flexibility proposed local system by data order reduce future pollution.