- 2015 - 2022
- Jumilla (España)
- Ascendente
- Sentinel-1
- Aquifers
In this study, Detektia uses InSAR technology to examine the Jumilla-Villena aquifer. Due to the scarcity of surface water, the region's agriculture relies on aquifers like Jumilla-Villena. Continued groundwater exploitation in this aquifer leads to land subsidence affecting the city of Villena. Over a 39-year period (1970-2009), 1,600Mm3 of water were extracted, leaving 1,900Mm3 in the aquifer by 2009. InSAR technology has proven effective for both monitoring aquifer exploitation rates and assessing how land subsidence impacts the structural health of buildings and infrastructure.
Jumilla-Villena aquifer over-exploitation
Agriculture is the main economic activity in this area, known for its high profitability due in part to the effective marketing of its products such as non-citrus fruits and grape table wines. Despite the lack of permanent surface water flows in the region, the area relies on water extracted from four aquifers for its irrigation needs, including the Jumilla-Villena aquifer. Between 1970 and 2009 (a period of 39 years), approximately 1,600Mm3 of water reserves were extracted. As of 2009, only 1,900Mm3 remained, providing a maximum lifespan of 40 years at the current rate of exploitation. However, this window could be even shorter due to the depth of the water, its poor quality and the high cost of extraction. If the aquifer were to be restored to its original state, it would take 800 years.
Analysis of the land subsidence caused by the aquifer
It can be seen from this example how InSAR technology is a very valuable tool for assessing the extent of subsidence due to aquifer exploitation. Detektia has analyzed the subsidence of all buildings in Villena around the aquifer from 2015 to 2022. The structural health indices derived from the InSAR results allow classifying each building according to its degree of damage.
We have generated indices that quantify differential settlement and deformation, which cause cracks and damage in buildings. These objectively quantify the structural health of all buildings over a wide area.
In Detektia we offer solutions to continuously monitor and control aquifers such as Jumilla Villena by using InSAR technology. We may also help you monitoring other infrastructures such as:
