Groundwater plays, and will continue to play a critical role in satisfying water requirements of most arid and semi-arid countries. Thus, sustainable groundwater development and preservation of groundwater quality should receive priority attention. This paper outlines the process through which environmental impact assessment of groundwater development projects can be carried out in arid and semi-arid developing countries. An appropriate framework for environmental impact assessment is suggested. It is recommended that such impact assessment should be at the centre of any good groundwater development and management plan.
By Asit K. Biswas, 1992. Article published in International Journal of Water Resources Development, Volume 8, Issue 2, pages 113-117. DOI: 10.1080/07900629208722541