Investigation of Sub-surface Contamination Around the Landfill Site: A Case Study

Abstract

Landfill leachate is a hazardous liquid that poses negative impacts if leaks out into environmental elements such as sub-surface soil and ground water systems. In the current study, detailed investigation was conducted on the municipal solid waste landfill site situated in northern part of Maharashtra, which is a non-engineered landfill. Ground water samples from nearby well and tube wells as well as soil samples around the landfill site were collected to assess the possible impact of leachate percolation on soil and ground water quality. Concentration of various physio-chemical parameters and heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cr, Hg, As) in ground water was determined and compared with Indian Standard for drinking water. The soil samples were taken in the vicinity of landfill site at a shallow depth of 1 and 2 m using hand auger and were analyzed for presence of heavy metals and organic content. The contaminated soil near landfill was compared with normal soil samples taken at proximity of landfill site. The presence of high organic contents and heavy metals in soil samples indicates that there is appreciable contamination of soil due to leachate migration from landfill site. The result shows that there is a presence of contamination content in ground water table observed in surrounding wells. The study indicated that leachate can damage the soil and ground water properties and can cause greater threat to sub-surface environment if further action is not taken.