Assessment of coastal aquifer vulnerability to seawater intrusion: Insights from Kadaladi region using the GALDIT MODEL

Coastal aquifers around the world, especially in Kadaladi Taluk, Tamil Nadu, India, are vulnerable to saltwater intrusion. Groundwater occurrence, hydraulic conductivity, depth to groundwater level, distance from the shore, existing seawater intrusion status, and aquifer thickness are some of the elements that the GALDIT model includes. This complete framework is highlighted in this research work. According to studies, the GALDIT model is useful for pinpointing areas of potential danger and providing direction for site-specific groundwater management plans. To make vulnerability assessment even more accurate, the GALDIT index has been fine-tuned using cutting-edge methods like statistical optimization and hydrochemical analysis. In order to protect coastal aquifers from saltwater intrusion and to make informed decisions about sustainable groundwater management, GALDIT identifies locations that are vulnerable to this phenomenon. This is especially true in coastal areas like Kadaladi Taluk. In order to lessen the impact of saltwater intrusion on coastal areas' freshwater supplies, this study highlights the importance of using GALDIT and comparable models worldwide.