Evolution of Groundwater in the Cheliff and Mitidja Aquifers (North Algeria) in Qualitative and Quantitative Terms

Abstract

Due to rapid population growth over time, the importance of freshwater is increasing, and the availability of this vital resource is becoming progressively more challenging. Consequently, the exploitation of untapped water sources becomes a necessity. With industrial development, groundwater is increasingly exposed to various contaminants by infiltrating polluted discharges. Water resources in Algeria, especially in the Cheliff and Mitidja plains, are limited, vulnerable, and unevenly distributed spatially. This precarious situation inevitably calls for new measures to be taken to utilize these resources sustainably. Natural factors, such as drought or geological constraints, affect the supply and distribution of drinking water. Therefore, it is imperative to quantify and analyze the quantity and quality of water supplies, and to devise methods for managing this resource to ensure its long-term viability. The water quality in these regions has significantly deteriorated in recent years due to unregulated urban discharges, intensive use of chemical fertilizers, and poorly managed farms. These factors alter the chemical composition of water, rendering it unsuitable for intended purposes. This chapter offers a scientific overview of the current groundwater status in the Cheliff and Mitidja regions, focusing on both qualitative and quantitative aspects.