Groundwater is recharged through the seepage of rainwater. The rainwater seeps through the soil and fills the empty spaces and cracks deep below the ground. This process of seepage of water into the ground is known as INFILTRATION.

Groundwater is recharged through various natural processes that involve the movement of water from the surface to the underground aquifers. These processes help replenish the groundwater level, which is crucial for maintaining a sustainable water supply. Here are the details of how groundwater is recharged:

1. Precipitation:
- Rainfall and snowfall are the primary sources of recharge for groundwater.
- Precipitation infiltrates into the soil, percolates through the unsaturated zone, and reaches the water table.
- The rate of recharge depends on factors such as rainfall intensity, soil type, vegetation cover, and land use.

2. Infiltration:
- Infiltration is the process by which water penetrates into the soil.
- It occurs when the soil has the capacity to absorb water due to its porosity and permeability.
- Permeable soils like sandy or loamy soils allow more infiltration compared to clayey soils.
- Vegetation cover plays a crucial role in enhancing infiltration by reducing surface runoff.

3. Runoff:
- Some portion of precipitation becomes surface runoff, which flows into streams, rivers, and lakes.
- However, a significant part of the runoff may also infiltrate into the ground and replenish groundwater.
- Areas with impermeable surfaces like concrete or asphalt hinder infiltration, leading to increased runoff.

4. Recharge from surface water bodies:
- Groundwater can also be recharged from surface water bodies such as rivers, lakes, and ponds.
- When these water bodies have a higher water level than the groundwater table, water seeps into the ground through the banks and bottom.
- This process is called bank filtration or riverbed infiltration.

5. Artificial recharge:
- In certain areas where natural recharge is insufficient, artificial methods are used to enhance groundwater recharge.
- Techniques like recharge wells, injection wells, and spreading basins are employed to direct surface water into the ground.
- These methods facilitate the percolation of water through the unsaturated zone to reach the aquifers.

6. Recharge from irrigation:
- In agricultural areas, irrigation can contribute to groundwater recharge.
- Excess water applied during irrigation can percolate into the ground and recharge the aquifers.
- However, excessive irrigation without proper water management practices can lead to waterlogging and salinization.

Overall, groundwater recharge is a vital process that sustains our water resources. It is influenced by natural factors such as precipitation, infiltration, and runoff, as well as human interventions through artificial recharge and irrigation practices. By understanding and managing these processes effectively, we can ensure the availability of groundwater for various needs while maintaining its long-term sustainability.