EVALUATING THE SUSTAINABILITY OF GROUNDWATER EXTRACTION AND RECHARGE IN ANGUWAN ROGO, JOS NORTH AREA

This study evaluates the sustainability of groundwater extraction in relation to recharge in Anguwan Rogo, Jos North, Plateau State, Nigeria. Rapid population growth, urban expansion, and the proliferation of unregulated boreholes have intensified pressure on groundwater resources in the area. Field investigations involving thirteen boreholes were conducted, incorporating pumping tests, discharge measurements, and water level monitoring. Groundwater recharge was estimated using the Water Table Fluctuation (WTF) method, while extraction rates were computed from observed pumping data. Results indicate that during a 2-hour pumping period, total groundwater extraction (80.13 m³) exceeded recharge (56.17 m³), resulting in a negative water balance. The calculated Groundwater Sustainability Index (GSI) of 0.701 further confirms that groundwater exploitation in the study area is unsustainable. These findings highlight the growing risk of aquifer depletion, declining water levels, and reduced water availability. The study emphasizes the need for improved groundwater management strategies, including regulated abstraction, enhanced monitoring systems, and the adoption of artificial recharge techniques to ensure long-term sustainability of groundwater resources in Anguwan Rogo.