Overview

The Challapampa and Punata aquifers are vital sources of drinking and irrigation water for approximately 300,000 to 400,000 people in the Cochabamba Valley. Despite their importance, these aquifers have long been poorly characterized—with limited data on their geometry, recharge zones, and variations in aquifer properties. This knowledge gap has made effective management and protection of these critical water resources increasingly difficult.

This GWB-funded project sought to provide a comprehensive understanding of the aquifer systems to guide sustainable water use, prevent overexploitation, and reduce contamination risks threatening Bolivia’s growing urban and agricultural demands.

Approach

The research team applied a combination of geophysical and hydrogeological surveys to delineate aquifer boundaries, estimate recharge potential, and assess groundwater quality. Techniques such as electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and seismic refraction were used to map subsurface structures and identify variations in sediment layers controlling groundwater flow.

Collaboration between local scientists, students, and community stakeholders ensured that both scientific and social factors were considered in the development of groundwater management strategies.

Impact

Produced the first detailed geophysical characterization of the Challapampa and Punata aquifers.

Generated actionable data for urban planners and water authorities to guide sustainable extraction.

Reduced the risk of aquifer contamination and overexploitation through improved understanding of recharge dynamics.

Trained local students and technicians in modern geophysical methods, building long-term scientific capacity in Bolivia.

Enhanced community awareness of the importance of aquifer protection and water conservation.