Based on the thematic map of the DUPIT index for the studied area (having an index values range from 37 to 52) the area can be ranked into three categories specifying areas of different protectability against diffuse pollutants, based on Table 14 as follows:
The higher protectability (less vulnerable areas), having an overall index in the range from 52 to 67, are located in the middle and eastern parts of the domain of interest, especially at Tenth of Ramadan city, El-Obour city, Inshas area and some desert areas near the Cairo-Ismailia desert road.
The moderately protectable (moderately vulnerable areas) have an overall index in the range from 37 to 51 and are located in the northern sectors of the study area.
The lower protectability areas are located in some parts of Belbis Al-Asher desert road and have a DUPIT index in the range from 22 to 36.
DUPIT index classification (Simsek et al. 2005)
| DUPIT index . | Protectability . |
|---|---|
| <22 | Very Low |
| 22–36 | Low |
| 37–51 | Medium |
| 52–67 | High |
| >67 | Very High |
| DUPIT index . | Protectability . |
|---|---|
| <22 | Very Low |
| 22–36 | Low |
| 37–51 | Medium |
| 52–67 | High |
| >67 | Very High |