Abstract
In the present study, detail investigation of groundwater for the suitability of drinking, domestic and irrigation purposes in Ranchi township area. For this purpose, 27 groundwater samples from wells and tube wells were collected and analyzed for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS) , major cations (Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+ and K+) and major anions (HCO 3 - F-, Cl-, NO 3 -, SO 4 2-). pH of the analyzed samples indicates slightly alkaline nature of the water samples. Total dissolved solids of 94% of analyzed groundwater samples were falling in the category of fresh water and 6% in the category of brackish water. HCO 3 and Cl are dominant anions and Ca 2+ and Na + as the dominant cation in the water chemistry.In majority of the samples, the analyzed parameters are well within the desirable limits and water is potable for drinking purposes. However, concentrations of EC, TDS, TH, Ca 2+, and Mg 2+ exceed the desirable limit at few sites.Parameter like residual sodium carbonate (RSC), permeability index (PI), percent sodium (%Na), sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) were calculated and plotted to understand the water quality and utilitarian aspect of groundwater for irrigation uses. The calculated parameters show that the majority of the groundwater samples are suitable for irrigation uses. However,high salinity values at few sites restrict the suitability of the water for irrigation uses.
Highlights
Groundwater may be considered as one of the most precious and one of the basic needs for human existence and the survival of mankind providing him the luxuries and comforts in addition to fulfilling his basic necessities of life
Greater will be the Electrical conductivity (EC).EC is a measure of total dissolved solids (TDS) i.e. - it depend upon the ionic strength of the solution
The groundwater of Ranchi township area is slightly alkaline in nature
Summary
Groundwater may be considered as one of the most precious and one of the basic needs for human existence and the survival of mankind providing him the luxuries and comforts in addition to fulfilling his basic necessities of life. Groundwater forms the major source of water supply for drinking purposes in most parts of India. It accounts for about 88% safe drinking water in rural areas, where the population is widely dispersed and the infrastructure needed for treatment and transportation of surface water does not exist. It has been estimated that once pollution enters the subsurface environment, it may remain concealed for many years, becoming dispersed over wide areas of groundwater aquifer and rendering ground water supplies unsuitable for consumption and other uses.The deterioration of ground water quality is of immediate concern in the districts, cities and towns of the country
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
