Water Quality Assessment and Monitoring in Pakistan: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Water quality has been a major problem in Pakistan owing to a mix of factors such as population expansion, industrial units in urban areas, and agricultural activities. The purpose of this research is to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of water quality monitoring and assessment in Pakistan. The article begins by examining the water sources of Pakistan (i.e., surface water, groundwater, and rainwater). The paper then discusses the methods used by researchers in Pakistan for water quality monitoring and assessment, including chemical, physical, and biological methods. It has been determined that in certain regions in Pakistan, the concentration of arsenic present in the groundwater exceeds the national and international prescribed maximum limits. The range of arsenic concentrations in the Punjab province can vary from 10 to 200 μg/L, while higher concentrations of up to 1400 μg/L have been recorded in Sindh. In the Punjab province, fluoride concentrations vary from 0.5 to 30 mg/L, while in Sindh, the levels can reach up to 18 mg/L. In addition, some of the research has talked about bacteria. A 2017 study found that the fecal coliform concentrations in certain water in different cities of Pakistan surpassed limits and were as high as 1100 CFU/100 mL. Additionally, natural factors such as geological formations and high salinity in some areas contribute to the contamination of water. The effect of water pollution on public health has the potential to cause harm. It is critical to investigate creative strategies for improving water quality, and it is necessary to make investments in research and development, which could include the implementation of sophisticated technologies and the conception of new treatment processes. The review performed in this paper facilitates an understanding of the current water quality in Pakistan, including the types and magnitudes of contaminants present in the water sources. Subsequently, the assessment emphasizes deficiencies and challenges in the existing water quality monitoring frameworks and provides suggestions for improving them. This review is also of significant benefit to all the stakeholders involved in ensuring clean and safe water for human consumption and other purposes in Pakistan, such as policymakers, water managers, researchers, and other stakeholders.