Chapter 2 - Issues of coastal groundwater contamination

Abstract

This chapter discusses the problems reported by researchers related to groundwater pollution in coastal areas around the world, including India. It also explains the study methods used by many researchers to identify coastal groundwater contamination and seawater intrusion. Most of these studies show that seawater intrusion is the main cause of groundwater contamination in coastal aquifers. The reason for seawater intrusion is due to increasing population, excessive pumping of groundwater in coastal aquifers, low gradient in coastal regions, and sea-level rise due to climate change. In addition to these factors, anthropogenic pollution further exacerbates the situation. Industrial effluents and domestic sewage via rivers, waste disposal near the coast, and leaching from landfills are common sources and causes of groundwater contamination. Recent studies have also reported microplastic contamination in coastal areas, which will affect coastal aquifers in the future. Therefore, based on scientific evidence, optimal management strategies need to be developed to protect groundwater systems in coastal regions. It is recommended that coastal regions be monitored to stop overexploitation, stop the construction of more and deeper wells, further restrict industrial activities, and implement civil structures to stop seawater intrusion and submarine groundwater discharge.