Application of GIS and artificial intelligence techniques in modeling spatial and temporal variations of groundwater in Al-Najaf Governorate

Recent advances in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have shifted attention toward spatial analysis, which makes it possible to process large amounts of geographic data with high accuracy. Detailed analysis of such data provides reliable information in a short time and, therefore, supports more effective management decisions aimed at saving time, reducing effort, and improving the use of available natural resources. The present study examines spatial and temporal changes in groundwater within Al-Najaf Governorate through the combined use of GIS and Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods. Information on wells, climate, and geological conditions was collected for the period 2000–2025. In addition, water samples were obtained from 22 wells distributed across the study area. Laboratory analysis was then carried out to evaluate groundwater suitability for different types of human use. The obtained values were compared with the official Iraqi standards and water-quality specifications. The analysis revealed noticeable changes in groundwater levels over both time and space. Several areas with particularly strong groundwater depletion were identified. At the same time, groundwater quality in the study area appears increasingly vulnerable to pollution. The main sources of contamination are linked to poorly regulated human activity, especially intensive agriculture and the excessive application of pesticides. Finally, the developed models produced sufficiently accurate forecasts of future groundwater conditions, which may support long-term and more sustainable water-resource management.