Integrated GIS-based multi-criteria evaluation for groundwater potential zones mapping in Boloso Sore District, Wolaita Zone, Ethiopia

Groundwater is crucial for fulfilling the requirements of an expanding population, urbanization, industrial development, and agricultural needs. Efficient groundwater management has become a pressing global challenge. Identification of reliable groundwater sources remains a major challenge in areas with limited hydrogeological data, and groundwater exploration is often conducted without a systematic scientific assessment. This study aims to delineate groundwater potential zones in the Boloso Sore District, Ethiopia, using an integrated geospatial multi-criteria evaluation approach that incorporates key contributing factors (topographical, hydrological, geological, spectral indicators, soil characteristics, and land use practices). All contributing factors were geo-referenced, converted into raster format, resampled, reclassified, and stored in a geodatabase. The relative importance of each factor was determined through pairwise comparisons, and the thematic layers were integrated in ArcGIS 10.8.2. A weighted overlay model was employed to generate a groundwater potential map. The study revealed that about 4352.85 ha (15%), 19,579.5 ha (65%), and 6033.87 ha (20%) of the area are in high-, moderate-, and low-potential groundwater zones, respectively. The findings provide a reliable scientific basis for groundwater exploration, borehole siting, drinking water supply, irrigation, and sustainable water resource management. The results can help decision-makers and water resource professionals identify prospective groundwater zones and formulate effective planning and sustainable water-supply strategies, thereby contributing to the objectives of UN SDG 6 by advancing sustainable water resource management.