Approximate theory for skimming well formulation in the Indus plain of west Pakistan

An approximate theory of a partially penetrating well used for skimming off fresh water overlying saline water is presented. The purpose of this study is to elucidate the interrelation between well spacing, well depth, rate of pumping, thickness of aquifer, and densities of fresh water and salt water. In this theoretical analysis certain real phenomena that may be expected to occur are not taken into account, such as the mixing of fresh and saline water by dispersion at the surface of the salt water cone beneath each well. However, most of the significant design variables are formulated and should provide useful guidelines for proper design and efficient operation of wells in regions where a layer of fresh water overlies a deep layer of saline water.