Designing Sustainable Drainage Systems to Mitigate Flood Risks in Urban Areas of the Lower Chenab Canal Region

The Lower Chenab Canal (LCC) region in Punjab, Pakistan, serves as an essential agricultural area that significantly contributes to the country's food production. However, the intensive use of agrochemicals and water resources has raised considerable concerns regarding the sustainability of groundwater quality in this region. This study aims to comprehensively analyze the impact of prevalent agricultural practices on groundwater quality in the LCC region. To achieve this, we conducted extensive field sampling across various agricultural zones within the region, collecting groundwater samples during different cropping seasons. These samples were analyzed for a range of chemical parameters, including nitrates, phosphates, pesticides, heavy metals, and other pollutants. The results were then correlated with agricultural practices, such as fertilizer and pesticide application rates, irrigation methods, and crop rotation patterns. Our findings reveal a strong association between intensive agricultural activities and elevated levels of nitrates and pesticides in groundwater, posing significant health risks to local communities. Notably, regions practicing monoculture and heavy agrochemical use showed higher contamination levels compared to areas with diversified cropping and organic farming practices. Additionally, geospatial analysis using Geographic Information System (GIS) and remote sensing data provided insights into the spatial distribution of groundwater contaminants and identified critical hotspots requiring immediate intervention. This research underscores the necessity for adopting sustainable agricultural practices, such as integrated pest management, precision agriculture, and organic farming, to mitigate groundwater pollution. Furthermore, this study advocates for the implementation of stringent regulatory frameworks and continuous monitoring programs to ensure the protection of groundwater resources. By integrating advanced geospatial tools and data analytics, this research contributes to developing effective strategies for sustainable groundwater management in the LCC region and similar agricultural landscapes globally.