Coupled Analysis of Groundwater Depletion, Land Subsidence, and Seismic Vulnerability in Kabul: Toward Sustainable Urban Resilience

This study presents an integrated framework analyzing the relationship between groundwater depletion, land subsidence, and seismic vulnerability in Kabul, Afghanistan. Rapid urban expansion and excessive groundwater extraction have led to significant subsurface deformation and increased seismic risks. Using MODFLOW modeling, geotechnical data, and GIS-based spatial analysis, critical zones were identified where declining groundwater levels correlate with increased seismic amplification. Field microtremor data confirmed the link between soil compaction and local ground motion response. Results indicate that continued groundwater depletion not only threatens water security but also increases structural vulnerability during earthquakes. The proposed framework highlights the urgent need for integrated groundwater and seismic risk management to enhance urban resilience.

کلیدواژه ها:

Groundwater Depletion ، Land Subsidence ، Seismic Vulnerability ، Hydro-Seismic Coupling ، Urban Resilience ، Kabul Basin