Analysis Of Groundwater Samples Research Articles

Effect of Saline Water Bodies on the Hydrogeochemical Evaluation of Groundwater at Kalpakkam Coastal Site, Tamil Nadu

Abstract Geochemical signatures of groundwater in Kalpakkam plant site were used to identify the geochemistry of the unconfined coastal aquifer. Ground water samples collected from 14 borewells around the study area were studied for four different seasons viz. Summer, South-west monsoon, North-east monsoon and Post-monsoon to identify the major geochemical processes activated in the study area. Data obtained through chemical analyses of groundwater samples were used for graphical plots and geochemical calculations. Piper, Chloro alkaline indices and Chadda’s diagram were determined for geochemical classification of the groundwaters. Identified geochemical processes were verified and quantified using hydrogeochemical aqueous speciation model, PHREEQC to find out the Saturation Indices (SI) of the possible minerals of the study area. It was observed that majority of the bore well samples were under saturated with respect to minerals such as Gypsum, Aragonite and oversaturated with respect to dolomite and calcite. Parameters such as ion exchange and reverse ion exchange, saline water incursion were observed due to the presence of saline water bodies in addition to dissolution of minerals.

Assessment of water qualities and evidence of seawater intrusion in a deep confined aquifer: case of the coastal Djeffara aquifer (Southern Tunisia)

Research Article| October 07 2013 Assessment of water qualities and evidence of seawater intrusion in a deep confined aquifer: case of the coastal Djeffara aquifer (Southern Tunisia) Adel Kharroubi; Adel Kharroubi 1Higher Institute of Water Sciences and Techniques, University of Gabes, Tunisia, Cité Erryadh 6072, Gabes, Tunisia Search for other works by this author on: This Site PubMed Google Scholar Soumaya Farhat; Soumaya Farhat 1Higher Institute of Water Sciences and Techniques, University of Gabes, Tunisia, Cité Erryadh 6072, Gabes, Tunisia Search for other works by this author on: This Site PubMed Google Scholar Belgacem Agoubi; Belgacem Agoubi 1Higher Institute of Water Sciences and Techniques, University of Gabes, Tunisia, Cité Erryadh 6072, Gabes, Tunisia E-mail: Belgacem.Agoubi@isstegb.rnu.tn Search for other works by this author on: This Site PubMed Google Scholar Zouhir Lakhbir Zouhir Lakhbir 2Société Nationale d'Exploitation et de Distribution d'Eau (SONEDE), Direction Production, Jerba, Tunisia Search for other works by this author on: This Site PubMed Google Scholar Journal of Water Supply: Research and Technology-Aqua (2014) 63 (1): 76–84. https://doi.org/10.2166/aqua.2013.105 Article history Received: September 20 2012 Accepted: August 08 2013 Views Icon Views Article contents Figures & tables Video Audio Supplementary Data Share Icon Share Facebook Twitter LinkedIn MailTo Tools Icon Tools Cite Icon Cite Permissions Search Site Search Dropdown Menu toolbar search search input Search input auto suggest filter your search All ContentAll JournalsThis Journal Search Advanced Search Citation Adel Kharroubi, Soumaya Farhat, Belgacem Agoubi, Zouhir Lakhbir; Assessment of water qualities and evidence of seawater intrusion in a deep confined aquifer: case of the coastal Djeffara aquifer (Southern Tunisia). Journal of Water Supply: Research and Technology-Aqua 1 February 2014; 63 (1): 76–84. doi: https://doi.org/10.2166/aqua.2013.105 Download citation file: Ris (Zotero) Reference Manager EasyBib Bookends Mendeley Papers EndNote RefWorks BibTex Geochemical analyses of groundwater samples from the Djeffara confined aquifer (Southern Tunisia) were performed. The distribution of saline waters was investigated to identify the origin of the groundwater contamination. The aquifer was shown to be affected by an abnormal increase in groundwater salinity. Near the recharge zone, the groundwater salinity does not exceed 2.5 g l−1 but reaches 7 g l−1 in the northeast of the study area. Due to over pumping, groundwater level decline is so important that it disturbs the equilibrium between fresh and saline waters. The salinity distribution coupled with the structure and geology of the Djeffara aquifer suggest current seawater intrusion is possible through the deep fault systems affecting the zone. The groundwater level was shown to be highly correlated with the sea level fluctuation in the area near the fault systems, suggesting a communication between the sea and the confined aquifer. Groundwater salinization is probably related to infiltration of seawater through the faults. However, an intrusion on the side of the discharge area of the aquifer may also be possible. The bromide and chlorine analyses coupled with the SO4/Cl ratio confirmed that the mixing between fresh and saline waters is the main origin of groundwater salinization. aquifer, fault systems, groundwater, seawater intrusion This content is only available as a PDF. © IWA Publishing 2014 You do not currently have access to this content.

ASSESSMENT AND TOXICITY OF FLUORIDE FROM GROUND WATER SOURCES IN AND AROUND BAGALKOT DISTRICT, KARNATAKA, INDIA

Physico - Chemical analysis of ground water samples was carried out from 2 0 locations of Bagalkot, Badami and Hungund and Ilkal taluks. The analysis of different parameters such as Temperature, pH, EC, TDS and Fluoride were carried out as per the standard methods. All the parameters studied were within the permissible limit exce pt Fluoride content in few locations. The analyzed results indicate the Fluoride concentration in some sampling spots namely Simikeri (Govt. Primary School Campus) of Baglkot Taluk, Mar a di village and Budan a gad village of Badami Taluk, Yarigonal v illage, I lkal (Near Municipalty ) and Aminagad (Gudur Cross) of Hungund taluk were found above standards probably due to seasonal variations and salt water contami nation. Fluoride ion in water sources is known for both beneficial and detrimental effects on live stoc k. The higher concentration of Fluoride in ground water causes a disease called “Fluorosis”. It is a slow, progressive, crippling malady, which affects every organ , tissue and cells in the body and results in health complaints having overlapping manifestat ions with several other diseases like chronic dental and skeletal Fluorosis.

Hydrochemical Characteristics and Groundwater Quality in the Island of Lesvos, Greece

The hydrochemical characteristics of groundwater in the island of Lesvos, Greece, were studied based on chemical analyses of groundwater samples collected from 30 locations covering all the island’s major aquifers hosted in different lithological formations. The Plagioclase dissolution was found to be responsible for the observed high concentrations of Na and Ca in the majority of volcanic aquifers. Ultrabasic rocks enrich groundwater with magnesium while intense hydrothermal activity and extensive alteration zones, which exist locally as a result of a recent volcanic activity, are associated with the existence of sulphate type groundwater and acidic pH in some areas. Seawater intrusion was found to be associated with high Cl- concentrations in three sampling locations. Based on sodium adsorption ratio, percent sodium, and the US salinity diagrams, the vast majority of groundwater samples were evaluated as suitable for irrigation purposes.

Seasonal Variability of Trace and Heavy Metals Concentration in Groundwater and its Quality for Drinking and Irrigation Purpose under Phuleli Canal Command Area (Sindh), Pakistan

The availability of good quality groundwater is a serious problem not only for drinking purpose but also for agriculture production. Human health problems due to waterborne diseases are commonly reported in Phuleli Canal Command area. In this context, a study was conducted to find out the existence of heavy metals as well as trace elements in groundwater of Phuleli Canal Command area, (Sindh) Pakistan which were affected by seasonal variability. The groundwater samples were collected from different seven locations i.e. RD-0, RD-30, RD-50, RD-70, RD-90, RD-110 and RD-130 throughout four seasons (summer, autumn, winter, and spring). Results of analysis of groundwater samples showed that Fe, Cd, Cr and Pb concentration in groundwater was higher than WHO permissible limit while Cu and Mn concentrations were greater than FAO limit. Comparatively heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Pb and As) concentrations in groundwater were higher towards downstream reach in winter as compared to upstream reach. Regarding seasons, the values of these parameters decreased in autumn>spring>summer. The results also showed increasing trend of heavy metal concentrations towards downstream reach (RD 130>110>90>70>50>30>0). It was concluded that groundwater in Phuleli Canal Command area contains highly toxic metals above the permissible limits of WHO and FAO for human consumption and agricultural crops respectively. Hence, people using groundwater, directly or indirectly, at downstream reach of the canal are at health risk.

Evaluation of hydrogeochemical processes and groundwater quality in the Jhansi district of Bundelkhand region, India

A base line study involving analysis of groundwater samples from the Jhansi district were carried out to determine the major and trace element chemistry and to assess the hydrogeochemical processes and water quality for domestic and irrigation uses. Study results show that groundwater is mildly acidic to alkaline in nature and HCO3 −, Cl−, Ca2+, Na+ and Mg2+ are the major contributing ions for the dissolved loads. The data plotted on the Gibbs and Piper diagrams reveal that the groundwater chemistry is mainly controlled by rock weathering with secondary contribution from anthropogenic sources. In a majority of the groundwater samples, alkaline earth metals exceed alkalies and weak acid dominate over strong acids. Ca–Mg–HCO3 is the dominant hydrogeochemical facies in the majority of the groundwater samples. The computed saturation indices demonstrate that groundwater is oversaturated with respect to dolomite and calcite. Kaolinite is the possible mineral that is in equilibrium with the water, implying that the groundwater chemistry favors kaolinite formation. A comparison of groundwater quality parameters in relation to specified limits for drinking water shows that the concentrations of TDS, F−, NO3 −, total hardness and Fe are exceeding the desirable limits in many water samples. Quality assessment for irrigation uses reveal that the groundwater is of good to suitable category. Higher salinity and residual sodium carbonate values at some sites restrict the suitability of groundwater and need an adequate drainage and water management plan for the area.

Determination of 12 Isomers of p -Nonylphenol in Groundwater by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry

To determine isomers of pra-nonylphenol in groundwater, separation conditions of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry( GC-MS) were optimized and 17 isomers were identified from a technical pra-nonylphenol reference material; mass ratios of the isomers were calculated by gas chromatography-flame ionization detection( GC-FID) and area normalization method; and 12 main isomers were detected using an internal standard quantitative method. Groundwater samples were prepared by adjusting solution's pH 2 and following liquid-liquid extraction procedure with dichloromethane. The results showed that linear correlation coefficients( R2) of the 12 isomers were all 0. 99 when the total nonylphenol concentrations were within200-1000 μg / L and 1000-8000 μg / L,respectively. For 1-liter groundwater,the method detection limits of the 12 isomers ranged 9. 01-41. 4 ng / L; the method recoveries ranged 69. 4%-129. 0% and relative standard deviations were 0. 6%-14. 0%( n = 5). The method is more sensitive and high reliable and has been used for the analysis of groundwater samples successfully.

Transformation of diphenylarsinic acid and related compounds in groundwater: production of thiol-containing arsenicals

Environmental context Contamination of groundwater by arsenic compounds used in chemical warfare research is a recently discovered environmental problem in Japan. We report evidence that the arsenic compounds originally present in the groundwater are transforming to thio-arsenic compounds of currently unknown environmental fate. Abstract During routine analyses of groundwater samples contaminated with diphenylarsinic acid (DPAA) at Kamisu, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, we obtained data indicating that unknown arsenic compounds accounted for up to 75% of the total arsenic in some of the samples. Results from using liquid chromatography in combination with elemental mass spectrometry and tandem molecular mass spectrometry suggested that two of the main unknown peaks were diphenyldithioarsinic acid and methylphenyldithioarsinic acid. These assignments were later confirmed by comparison with chemically synthesised compounds. A potential transformation scheme for DPAA in the environment is proposed based on the derivatives identified in the environmental samples.

Pesticides and degradation products in groundwaters from a vineyard region: Optimization of a multiresidue method based on SPE and GC-MS

A reliable multiresidue method based on solid phase extraction was developed using GC-MS to determine and quantify 34 pesticides, including herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, and some of their degradation products, in groundwater in a vineyard region of La Rioja (northern Spain). Different parameters were optimized and good recoveries (65-108% range) and precisions (12-19% range) were achieved with spiked water samples for a concentration of 0.1 μg/L. The experimental results showed an excellent linearity (r(2) > 0.99) over the 0.1-1.5 μg/L range. The detection limits of the proposed method were 1-37 ng/L for most of the compounds studied. The methodology has been successfully applied to the analysis of groundwater samples from vineyard areas in La Rioja and the presence of pesticides, especially fungicides and herbicides, at several concentration levels was revealed. Terbuthylazine, its metabolite desethyl-terbuthylazine, and fluometuron were the pesticides most frequently detected in higher concentrations. Overall and taking into consideration the European Union maximum residue limit of pesticides in groundwater, 16 of the 34 compounds included in this study were detected in concentrations over that limit in at least one of the samples analyzed.

Physicochemical Analysis of Groundwater Samples of Bichi Local Government Area of Kano State of Nigeria

The physicochemical properties of groundwater fro m various locations in Bich i Local Govern ment Area of Kano State were analysed using standard methods. The samples taken from t wenty different locations revealed that the study area has a mean of Turbid ity 2.0 NTU, Colour 2.5 TCU, Temp. 25℃, P H 6.8, Total A lkalinity 85.0 mg/ l, Total Hardness 71.83 mg/ l, and others are: Calciu m 25.24 mg/l, Magnesium 2.19mg/ l, Iron 0.05, Chloride 7.89mg/l, Nitrate 0.79 mg/ l, Total d issolved solid 81.0 mg/l, and Conductivity 135µ S/cm,. The study was geared towards ascertaining the quality of ground water in the area and, it was observed that the water samp les were within World Health Organizat ion (W HO) and Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) permissible limit fo r ground water which satisfy the safety limit for its use for various purposes like do mestic, agricultural, and industrial. It was suggested that there should be regular monitoring and control of human activities to protect the ground water fro m contaminations.

Evaluation of Groundwater Resources of the Middle Niger (Bida) Basin of Nigeria

The Middle Niger Basin lies in the sedimentary terrains of the middle part of Nigeria. It has an area coverage of about 27,000km<SUP>2</SUP>. The area falls under the middle Nigeria climatic belt which is mainly tropical with an average rainfall of about 1250mm. This paper evaluates the hydrogeological potential of the terrain. The methods of investigation include analysis of meteorological, drilling, pumping tests and water quality data. A total of about 50 boreholes located in the area were selected for study. Results of the analyses of the data showed that groundwater occurs both in confined and semi-confined conditions. Depth to water rarely exceeds 50m, though in some few cases may be over 70m. Averagely, well yield varies between 1.08 and 19m<SUP>3</SUP>/hr. Transmissivity values obtained using various methods vary between 1.365 and 393m<SUP>2</SUP>/day. Hydrochemical analyses of groundwater samples showed poor mineralization with low TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) rarely over 300mg/l. The water is fresh, soft and free of chemical pollution and therefore suitable for many purposes.

Impact of agriculture activities on a coastal aquifer in Tunisia and options for a better water management

The quality of a coastal aquifer (Korba, Tunisia) in a semi-arid agricultural region was studied by the collection and analysis of groundwater samples for their main chemical and biological parameters in relation to the SEQ evaluation system for groundwater quality. Results indicate important anthropogenic deterioration. Most of the samples were unsuitable for drinking-water production; animal drinking and irrigation with these waters will require caution. The high contamination is mainly due to the local intensive agriculture. Based on the objectives-oriented project planning method, regulatory and socio-economic instruments were extensively developed to encourage sustainable agriculture through a participatory exercise.

Evaluation of organic contamination in urban groundwater surrounding a municipal landfill, Zhoukou, China

This paper investigates the organic pollution status of shallow aquifer sediments and groundwater around Zhoukou landfill. Chlorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons, monocylic aromatic hydrocarbons, halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons, organochlorine pesticides and other pesticides, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have been detected in some water samples. Among the detected eleven PAHs, phenanthrene, fluorine, and fluoranthene are the three dominant in most of the groundwater samples. Analysis of groundwater samples around the landfill revealed concentrations of PAHs ranging from not detected to 2.19 μg/L. The results show that sediments below the waste dump were low in pollution, and the shallow aquifer, at a depth of 18-30 m, was heavily contaminated, particularly during the wet season. An oval-shaped pollution halo has formed, spanning 3 km from west to east and 2 km from south to north, and mainly occurs in groundwater depths of 2-4 m. For PAH source identification, both diagnostic ratios of selected PAHs and principal component analysis were studied, suggesting mixed sources of pyro- and petrogenic derived PAHs in the Zhoukou landfill. Groundwater table fluctuations play an important role in the distribution of organic pollutants within the shallow aquifer. A conceptual model of leachate migration in the Quaternary aquifers surrounding the Zhoukou landfill has been developed to describe the contamination processes based on the major contaminant (PAHs). The groundwater zone contaminated by leachate has been identified surrounding the landfill.

Seasonal variations in groundwater quality: A statistical approach

In this study, a descriptive statistical measure and a partial correlation analysis were applied to groundwater quality data set monitored in pre-monsoon and post-monsoon for three years to investigate seasonal variations of Central Ganga Plain in India. The variables were divided into two categories as “chemical property- HCO3, Cl, SO4, Na, K, Ca, and Mg” and “physical property- electrical conductivity (EC), pH and hardness”. The results revealed that groundwater quality variables (chemical property and physical property) were distinctly different between two seasons. Seasonal changes of groundwater quality caused by ion exchange, dissolution mechanism and anthropogenic influences such as fertilizer, pesticides, agricultural activities, and other industrial units should be taken into consideration by the groundwater managers especially in post monsoon 2005 seasons in which higher concentrations were observed. From the partial correlation coefficient analysis of groundwater samples, dominance of alkalis and relative abundance of SO4during post monsoon were inferred. In the case of the groundwater samples, strong correlation were observed among HCO3 with Cl, SO4, Na, Ca, pH and hardness in the post-monsoon (2005) samples, as well as negative correlation were found among the major variables except HCO3 with Na, Mg, hardness during the pre-monsoon (2006) suggested from partial correlation of groundwater samples. Key words: Seasonal variation, groundwater quality, descriptive statistical measures, partial correlation analysis.

Effects of recharge area and drainage system on ground water quality of Telkaif area/ north of Iraq

Drainage system and recharge area of the catchment area plays important role in recharging ground water aquifer, through infilteration of rain and runoff water to the ground water depending on the type of sediments cover, intensity of rainfall, slope and intensity of runoff. This study discuss the drainage system recharge and its effect on the concetration of the chemical constituents of ground samples, through the analysis of chemical and physical parameters of ground water samples of the studied area for two periods during the year 2007. The first period of sampling is on April 2007 where the ground water table is on the highest level, while the second period is on November 2007 where the ground water table is on the lowest level. The chemical parameters analyzed were pH, TDS, EC, TH, Ca, Mg, Na, K, HCO3, SO4, Cl and NO3. Chemical parameters such as sodium percentage (Na%), Sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), Permeability Index (PI) and saturation index with respect to calcite and gypsum (SI) were calculated, based on the major cation and anions analysis of ground water samples. A notable variation in the chemical composition of ground water samples between the two analyses has attracted attention of the authors. An attempts is made to interpret the variation in the chemical composition of ground water and the cause of the variation by the interaction of ground water and host rocks in one hand and drainage system recharge and dissolution of surface pollutants during infilteration and percolation of rainwater in the other hand. The abundance of the major ions of the ground water samples (1, 2, 3, 4) is in the following order: Na > Ca > Mg > K = HCO3 > SO4 > Cl > NO3, while the abundance of the major ions of the rest samples is in the following order: Ca > Na > Mg > K = SO4 > HCO3 > Cl > NO3.

Tracing the evidence of sea water intrusion in the coastal aquifer of Adhirampattinam, India, using hydro-chemical analysis

Exploration of coastal aquifer always leads to change in water table levels that provide room for ingression of sea water. Monitoring of sea water intrusion is essential to determine and predict groundwater deterioration and assess other managerial activities in coastal aquifers. Chemical analysis of groundwater sample is considered as one of the practical methods to assess the quality of groundwater in general and also to identify the sea water mixing with fresh water. Current rates of aquifer abstraction are unsustainable and deterioration of groundwater quality is documented in many parts of India. Utilisation of coastal aquifers as operation reservoirs in water supply management requires the development of tools that facilitate the prediction of aquifer behaviour, understanding of the patterns of movement and mixing between fresh water and salt water. Further, the factors that influence these processes are imperative to manage the coastal groundwater resources. Adhirampattinam in Tamil Nadu, India, a coastal town which has been identified as one of the towns with groundwater quality deterioration in recent times, has been taken up for the present study. Water samples from this town and eight coastal villages along the town were collected for quality analysis over three seasons starting from year 2006 to 2008 for detailed hydro-chemical analysis. The parameters studied are pH, EC, TDS, salinity and other hardness elements, which are relevant to assess not only sea water intrusion but also the connected pollution. The analysis reveals that the area under the study viz. Adhirampattinam town is seriously affected by sea water intrusion and indicates a warning signal to other selected places in the area.

Physico-Chemical analysis of groundwater samples in the Varahanadi watershed, India

Groundwater quality analysis was carried out in the Varahanadi basin. In the last few years, groundwater has become one of the main sources of irrigation in this area, supplementing the canal surface irrigation system. In the tail end villages of Puducherry, groundwater is the only source of irrigation. Groundwater samples collected from sixteen villages were analysed for various physico-chemical parameters and compared with the standard desirable limits of water quality parameters prescribed by Bureau of Indian Standards and World Health Organisation. It was observed that the bed rock of the study area influenced the groundwater quality resulting in higher concentrations of calcium, potassium and phosphates in the groundwater samples.

Assessment of an Urban Contaminated Site from Tannery Industries in Dhaka City, Bangladesh

AbstractThe Hazaribagh tannery area of Bangladesh is considered an extremely polluted site owing to the disposal of untreated Cr-enriched tannery effluent. This study was undertaken from 2006–2008 to characterize the nature and extent of pollution in the area, the associated health risks, and to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of the selected cleanup strategies. A comprehensive soil, wastewater, and groundwater sampling and detailed laboratory analysis were done. The results of the study indicated that the site is extremely polluted by Cr (up to 37,000 mg/kg dm), mineral oils, and extractable organohalogenic compounds (EOX), and the most severe soil pollution was confined up to a depth of 10–20 ft (3.048–6.096 m). The phenol index and chromium level in the tannery effluent were very high, and most of this Cr was found to adsorb onto suspended solids in the wastewater. Analysis of groundwater samples from tubewells in the Hazaribagh area indicated that groundwater is not contaminated by Cr or any...

Hydrogeochemical Variations of Groundwater of the Northern Jabal Hafit in Eastern Part of Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates (UAE)

This study is aimed to assess and evaluate the suitability of groundwater of the area located to the south-east of Al-Ain area in the UAE using hydrogeochemcical approach. The chemical analyses of groundwater samples collected from the study area showed that the groundwater salinity is high which resulted from heavy groundwater pumping. High chloride concentrations in groundwater of Mubazarah and Neima might be attributed to the entrapped saline water within the limestone sequence of Jabal Hafit, or it can be the agricultural activities as it clear from the positive relationship between Cl- and Br-. High sulphate concentrations in groundwater might be related to the presence of gypsum and anhydrite within the limestone sequence of Jabal Hafit. The anionic and cationic compositions of groundwater indicate that the chloride and sodium ions are the dominant and presence of bicarbonate and sulphate may reflect the mixing of such water by the recent freshwater through the existing structural lineaments within the study area. The hydrochemical parameters indicate a relative increase in the concentration of calcium, magnesium and sulphate ions and this could reflect the influence of carbonates and evaporite sediments.

Origin and dynamics of groundwater salinity in the alluvial plains of western Delhi and adjacent territories of Haryana State, India

AbstractGroundwater salinity is a widespread problem and a challenge to water resources management. It is an increasing concern in the alluvial plains of Delhi and neighbouring Haryana state as well as a risk for agricultural production water supply and sustainable development. This study aims to identify potential sources of dissolved salts and the driving mechanisms of salinity ingress in the shallow aquifer. It combines a comprehensive review of environmental conditions and the analysis of groundwater samples from 25 sampling points. Major ions are analysed to describe the composition and distribution of saline groundwater and dissolution/precipitation dynamics. Density stratification and local upconing of saline waters were identified by multilevel monitoring and temperature logging. Bromide–chloride ratios hold information on the formation of saline waters, and nitrate is used as an indicator for anthropogenic influences. In addition, stable isotope analysis helps to identify evaporation and to better understand recharge processes and mixing dynamics in the study region. The results lead to the conclusion that surface water and groundwater influx into the poorly drained semiarid basin naturally results in the accumulation of salts in soil, sediments and groundwater. Human‐induced changes of environmental conditions, especially the implementation of traditional canal and modern groundwater irrigation, have augmented evapotranspiration and led to waterlogging in large areas. In addition, water‐level fluctuations and perturbation of the natural hydraulic equilibrium favour the mobilisation of salts from salt stores in the unsaturated zone and deeper aquifer sections. The holistic approach of this study demonstrates the importance of various salinity mechanisms and provides new insights into the interference of natural and anthropogenic influences. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley &amp; Sons, Ltd.