The Rise of Groundwater Levels to the Surface in Zliten: Causes and Solutions

Abstract

Zliten Municipality is located on the Libyan coast, approximately 160 km east of the capital, Tripoli. Some areas of the municipality have been affected by rising groundwater levels for over eleven years, with residents observing excessive moisture on the ground surface and water traces in some underground reservoirs. Groundwater is a vital source of freshwater in many regions, particularly in areas lacking surface water sources such as rivers or lakes. In Zliten, situated on Libya’s western coast, groundwater serves as the primary source of water for agricultural irrigation and daily use.

The rise in groundwater levels in Zliten poses environmental and economic challenges, potentially leading to adverse effects on soil quality, agricultural activities, and risks to local infrastructure. Consequently, studying this phenomenon has become crucial for understanding its dimensions, analyzing its causes and consequences, and proposing short-term solutions.

Over the past two years, Zliten has experienced an unusual increase in groundwater levels, raising concerns among researchers and water resource specialists. This rise may have significant environmental and economic implications, including soil alterations, water quality deterioration, and potential impacts on the region’s infrastructure.

This study aims to explore the causes of rising groundwater levels in Zliten, analyze its potential effects on water resources, agriculture, and the local environment, and examine management strategies to address this phenomenon. Furthermore, the research provides recommendations for sustainable groundwater management in the region, proposing viable solutions to ensure the long-term sustainability of these vital water resources.