Hydrochemical Investigation of Groundwater Contamination in the Grombalia Shallow Aquifer, Cap Bon Peninsula, Tunisia: Impact of Irrigation with Industrial Waste Water

Abstract

During the last two decades, demands for groundwater from urban, industrial development and extensive agricultural activities in the Grombalia basin, Cap Bon peninsula, northeastern Tunisia, particularly in the Beni Khalled, Menzel Bou Zelfa and Soliman regions have resulted in increased withdrawals from the Quaternary shallow aquifer. As an example of water supply related problem generalised water level decline and the deterioration of groundwater quality. In deed, in recent times, soils have become increasingly polluted by waste water and agricultural chemicals (fertilisers, pesticides, herbicides). In shallow groundwaters this pollution can easily be transported. The major economic role of the shallow aquifer has raised concerns relating to the effects on groundwater resource as (i) the recharge rate of the shallow aquifer is not known with precision and (ii) the detrimental effect on the environment in relation with the groundwater contamination and salinization, which put a strain on the existing fresh water that supports the regional development. Subsequently there is a requirement for agreed and consistent examination and assessment activities to recognize the source of the pollution and evaluate its current amount and future expansion. It’s within this framework that is undertaken the present study, which aims to provide reliable information about the hydrochemical characteristics of groundwater and the main groundwater mineralization processes. It also investigates the impact of regional agricultural and industrial activities on groundwater quality.