Management, contamination and quality evaluation of groundwater in North Cyprus

Abstract

The aim of the research is to shed light on the irrigation water management in Güzelyurt region in North Cyprus and to assess the groundwater quality. A screenshot is taken for the water management system, whereas private wells and state owned artificial lakes and water wells are utilized on cost-basis for irrigation purposes, as well as the water arriving from Turkey through pipelines crossing the Mediterranean. The management methodology was studied and representative groundwater samples collected from different villages were analysed for physicochemical parameters and contamination. Main cations indicated Na+ > Mg2+ > Ca2+ > K+, while anions showed Cl− > HCO3− > SO42− > CO32−, in conformance with irrigation water standards. On the other hand, concentration of heavy metals were all below the threshold limits, with the order Fe > Cr > As > Pb > Hg > Cd. Seawater intrusion was determined by Revelle Index and Ca2+-Mg2+-Cl− was the predominant hydrochemical facies, while US Salinity Laboratory diagram was utilized for salinity and sodium hazard. Various ratios and indices were also utilized in detail to uncover the quality conformance of the irrigation water in use. Only Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR) values indicated excellent groundwater quality, while others indicated good quality, with the exception of Magnesium Adsorption Ratio (MAR) which was unsuitable. In conclusion, the study revealed the safe use of the groundwater for irrigation purposes.