GIS-based suitability mapping of Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) in Diredawa catchment, Eastern Ethiopia

Groundwater abstraction has increased tremendously due to population growth, urbanization, and industrial expansions. Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) has been a promising technique for increasing freshwater availability in response to water demand for different consumptions. This study aimed to identify suitable zones for MAR in the Diredawa catchment, eastern Ethiopia using multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA). The seven parameters processed were soil texture, lithology, slope, land use and land cover, drainage density, transmissivity, and water quality (NO3). Each criterion was evaluated with analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and mapped by GIS. The sensitivity analysis was conducted using the map removal technique, and potential zones were validated using borehole yield data. The MAR suitability zones were assorted into very high, high, moderate, low, and very low suitability classes, representing 15.8%, 25.8%, 28.8%, 13.1%, and 16.3% areas. The MAR suitability mapping is highly affected by lithological variation. The alluvial sediment, upper sandstone, and fractured limestone with sandy loam soil texture are potential areas for implementing MAR. The highest potential MAR site is located in the western, southwestern, and northern parts of the catchment. This study will serve as a foundation for future site selection of MAR structures, aiming to enhance groundwater supply sources, improve groundwater quality, and manage urban flooding in the water-stressed and flood-prone Diredawa catchment.