In order to minimize water infiltration into depth you could determine infiltration rates or (saturated) hydraulic conductivities, as well as soil texture, densities and water retention curves. You further may consult models like HYDRUS to predict infiltration under changing conditions like pressure head, solvent transport or even dissolution/phase transitions if you know the minerals and link with phreeqc.

Anyway, how much is "huge"? Do you want to construct a pond or use natural depressions for water storage? You may need more tests to prove mechanical stability if you plan to construct.

Permeability, the rate that water flows through the soil, which effects the

rate of loss of water held in the basin.

The geologic strata below the reservoir, horizontal, or tilted strata.

Dr. Kani, I would test the soil for its percolation characteristics The soil should be impermeable to reduce percolation. We can prepare the bottom of the lake or pond by compacting with clay and silty soil. The sides should be sloped and could plant shrubs and sod the slopes to prevent erosion..For decorative purposes we can place bricks on edges along the slope creating varied beautiful design. Thus it will become a place to store rain water or a detention pond. Cheers, Dr.Sayamurti

Dr.Kani, I am happy to see that you worked on research of the Tamirabharani River!

Good to review the topics you have chosen to study the condition of water quality in the river.

Water holding capacity should also be determined apart from soil intake xtics.

I would test all the soil physics parameters of the soil . then you need to do calibration and application of an UNSAT or HYDRUS model to estimate return flow and percolation

characteristics .

Thank you so much for all your valuable additional information's to my questions