Published Paper Details:

Access to reliable and sustainable water sources is critical for rural communities, particularly in regions facing water scarcity. This study conducts a comparative analysis of infiltration galleries and traditional wells as two primary methods for rural water supply. Infiltration galleries, which are subsurface structures designed to collect groundwater through natural filtration, are evaluated against traditional wells in terms of water yield, quality, construction costs, maintenance requirements, and long-term sustainability. Field data from selected rural sites are analyzed, focusing on hydrogeological conditions, water extraction rates, and contamination risks. The results indicate that infiltration galleries often provide superior water quality due to natural filtration processes and are less susceptible to surface contamination compared to traditional wells. However, traditional wells may offer higher water yields in certain geological settings and are generally less expensive to construct. The study also explores the socio-economic implications of each method, including community acceptance and operational challenges. The findings suggest that while infiltration galleries are a viable and sustainable option for rural water supply, their suitability depends on local hydrogeological conditions and financial resources. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers and engineers in selecting the most appropriate water extraction method for rural areas, balancing technical feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability.