Access to drinking water remains a major challenge in the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly in Kinshasa, where rapid population growth exerts intense pressure on existing water infrastructure. In response to this crisis, the population of the Lemba Commune is turning massively to groundwater through an uncontrolled proliferation of individual boreholes, often drilled without adhering to the recommended spacing standards. This situation raises critical issues related to the sustainability of water resources, the stability of aquifers, and environmental quality.
This study employs Geographic Information Systems (GIS) tools to map the spatial distribution of more than 202 boreholes and analyze their hydrogeological and environmental impacts. The results reveal an excessive densification of extraction points, with distances sometimes reduced to 10-20 meters instead of the regulatory 150 meters, promoting overexploitation of aquifers, anthropogenic pollution, soil subsidence, and degradation of local ecosystems. Furthermore, the pressure exerted during drilling operations can induce local seismic risks, while the decline in groundwater levels compromises access to drinking water and resource quality.
This study highlights the importance of integrated and sustainable management of groundwater resources, supported by a dynamic GIS database, strict regulatory policies, and increased public awareness. By combining scientific expertise, geomatics technologies, and political will, it is possible to ensure the sustainability of urban water resources, which are essential for socio-economic development and environmental preservation in a rapidly expanding urban context.