In a significant advancement for water resource management in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, a recent study led by Trinh Hoai Thu from the Institute of Marine Geology and Geophysics has unveiled crucial insights into groundwater recharge using the cumulative rainfall departure method. This research, published in the journal ‘Геосистемы переходных зон’ (translated as “Geosystems of Transitional Zones”), highlights the pressing need for sustainable groundwater utilization in a region heavily reliant on this vital resource.
Groundwater is a lifeline for many communities in Bac Lieu province, particularly during the dry season when surface water sources dwindle. The study estimates that the annual groundwater recharge from rainfall amounts to approximately 74.07 million cubic meters, translating to about 203,000 cubic meters per day. This figure is notably 16% lower than the current abstraction rate of 23,600 cubic meters per day, raising concerns about the sustainability of groundwater extraction in the region.
The research employed monitored rainfall data and groundwater levels from various aquifers, revealing that the recharge fractions for different geological periods—Holocene, Upper Pleistocene, Middle-Upper Pleistocene, and Lower Pleistocene—are relatively low, with the total recharge only accounting for 1.31% of total rainfall. This finding underscores the challenges faced in groundwater management and highlights the importance of accurate monitoring and estimation methods.
“This study provides a critical framework for understanding groundwater dynamics in the Mekong Delta,” said Thu. “By applying the cumulative rainfall departure method, we can better assess the renewable groundwater reserves and make informed decisions for sustainable water resource management.”
The implications of this research extend beyond Bac Lieu province, as it sets the stage for future comparisons with other regions, such as the Red River basin in northern Vietnam. Monitoring groundwater inflow and resource volume in these areas will be essential for addressing regional water scarcity and ensuring the longevity of groundwater resources.
For the water, sanitation, and drainage sector, these findings are particularly relevant. As urbanization and agricultural demands escalate, understanding the delicate balance of groundwater recharge and extraction will become increasingly crucial. Companies and policymakers will need to adapt their strategies to align with sustainable practices that ensure the availability of clean water for future generations.
As this research continues to shape the conversation around groundwater management in Vietnam, stakeholders are encouraged to leverage these insights for more effective resource planning and conservation efforts. The work of Thu and her team serves as a pivotal contribution to the ongoing dialogue about water sustainability in one of the world’s most vulnerable regions.
For more information about the research and its implications, you can visit the Institute of Marine Geology and Geophysics.
