Groundwater modeling for mine dewatering

Serious disasters causing significant loss of life and property have occurred in our country and worldwide due to the inability to predict sudden groundwater inflows during tunnel construction for highways, railways, and water transportation, as well as mining production activities below the groundwater level. This situation has led to time losses and substantial cost increases in many projects. Accurately predicting groundwater inflow before and during excavation and identifying safe and cost-effective methods are among the most challenging tasks for researchers in mining operations. In this context, modeling studies are a crucial tool for understanding the current situation, forecasting future changes, and evaluating different scenarios. The continuous updating of data and the development of forward-looking predictions further emphasize the importance of modeling processes. In a study conducted at a dewatered mining site located within the MenteĢ sub-basin of the Ceyhan main basin, groundwater recharge and evaporation rates were calculated, and various pumping programs were implemented to manage groundwater level declines. Using the Visual MODFLOW software, these applications demonstrated how uncertainties in groundwater modeling can be minimized and how more effective decisions can be made in water management. Key Words: Modelling, Groundwater, MenteĢ Watershed, Visual MODFLOW