Assessment Of Groundwater Quality Research Articles

Assessing groundwater quality in northern Algeria using geochemical and index approaches

This study aims to enhance understanding of the hydrogeochemical behavior of the aquifer by utilizing a water quality index in conjunction with hydrogeochemical analysis. The focus is on identifying the factors that control its chemical composition and influence its suitability for domestic use. Water samples were collected from twenty boreholes and analyzed for major ions, pH, and electrical conductivity during the dry and wet seasons. During the wet season, the water quality index indicated generally good chemical quality, with an average score of 96.12. This was categorized as Excellent (5%), Good (55%), and Poor (40%). In contrast, the dry season showed a slight deterioration in water quality, with an average score of 102.57, reflecting a distribution of Excellent (10%), Good (35%), and Poor (55%). Boreholes located in the western and central parts of the aquifer exhibited better chemical quality compared to those in the eastern part, which are considered unsuitable for human consumption due to their poor quality. The mineralization process is primarily attributed to the dissolution of dolomitic and evaporitic formations, resulting in various chemical facies. The dominant facies identified were calcium and magnesium bicarbonate (85%), followed by sodium bicarbonate (7.5%), calcium sulfate (5%), and sodium chloride (2.5%). This study underscores the critical need for sustainable management practices to protect groundwater quality in the Mitidja plain amid ongoing environmental challenges. Addressing these issues is essential for ensuring safe drinking water availability for local communities.

Groundwater quality assessment for drinking and irrigation: a case study in the Cauvery River Basin (CRB) of Tiruchirappalli District, Tamil Nadu, India

ABSTRACT The long-term impacts of human activities on groundwater quality in the Cauvery River Basin are not well understood, particularly the combined effects of urbanization, industrialization, and agriculture. Seasonal factors, such as precipitation and water-table fluctuations, also influence groundwater chemistry, affecting its suitability for drinking and irrigation. This research aims to assess the hydrochemical characteristics of groundwater and evaluate its long-term suitability for these purposes, considering both natural and anthropogenic factors. A total of 56 groundwater samples were collected and analyzed for various physicochemical and biochemical parameters. The results showed that the most prevalent ions are bicarbonate (27.3%), chloride (24.1%), and calcium (16.6%), followed by sulfate, magnesium, sodium, and others. The Piper and Gibbs plots indicated that most groundwater samples belong to the mixed calcium chloride facies, and rock–water interaction is the dominant natural mechanism, with some anthropogenic influences, respectively. The GIS-based drinking water quality index (DWQI) map showed that 66% of the samples were of excellent to good quality for drinking without treatment, while the remaining samples were of moderate quality and nearly unsuitable for drinking, requiring further treatment. However, most of the groundwater samples were suitable for irrigation based on irrigation water quality indices.

Physico-Chemical Quality Assessment of Groundwater in Cuddalore District, Tamil Nadu, India

Physico-Chemical Quality Assessment of Groundwater in Cuddalore District, Tamil Nadu, India

Assessing Groundwater Quality in the Rapidly Industrialising Selaqui Area of Dehradun, India: Implications for Sustainable Water Management

Assessing Groundwater Quality in the Rapidly Industrialising Selaqui Area of Dehradun, India: Implications for Sustainable Water Management

Fluoride distribution, groundwater quality and health risk assessment for contaminated region near Krishna River (Maharashtra) India

Fluoride distribution, groundwater quality and health risk assessment for contaminated region near Krishna River (Maharashtra) India

A Groundwater Quality Assessment Model for Water Quality Index: Combining Principal Component Analysis, Entropy Weight Method, and Coefficient of Variation Method for Dimensionality Reduction and Weight Optimization, and Its Application.

Groundwater underpins water supply for most of the world's regions, yet its sustainable utilization has been markedly compromised by inappropriate exploitation and a multitude of pollution sources. Water quality evaluation has emerged as an essential strategy to guarantee the optimized utilization and vigilant conservation of water resources. In this study, principal component analysis (PCA), entropy weight method (EWM), coefficient of variation method (CVM), and Water Quality Index (WQI) were used to construct an integrated WQI groundwater quality assessment model that integrates PCA-CVM-EWM for dimensionality reduction and weight optimization. Taking a village in Shandong Province, China, as an example, PCA identified seven evaluation indicators. The CVM-EWM were coupled to calculate comprehensive weights through the principle of minimum information entropy, followed by a comprehensive assessment of groundwater quality based on WQI values. The results indicated that Class III groundwater predominated in the study area, accounting for 74%, with localized pollution present. The hydrochemical type of the groundwater was primarily SO4·HCO3-Ca, significantly influenced by human activities. The coefficients of variation for Fe, Mn, and NH4-N all exceeded 1. Compared to other methods, the optimized WQI model demonstrated superior performance in the selection of evaluative indicators, weight distribution, and comprehensive water quality assessment, showing a distinct advantage for water quality data with numerous hydrochemical indicators and substantial coefficients of variation. The findings provided a scientific reference for diagnosing groundwater quality issues and formulating preventive and control measures. PRACTITIONER POINTS: A comprehensive water quality index evaluation model was constructed. Optimized steps for selecting indicators and assigning weights for the water quality index model. Selection of evaluation indicators based on indicator correlation analysis. The variability of hydrochemical data is considered.

Hydrochemical analysis and groundwater quality assessment for irrigation in the Remila Plain, Khenchela, Northeast Algeria

Water resources are facing significant challenges in result of rapidly growing demand, deteriorating quality, and the effects of climate change. Today, water quantity and quality issues have become prevalent in various regions across the globe, affecting both northern and southern territories. Among the sectors reliant on this resource, irrigation stands out as the largest consumer of water. When surface water becomes inaccessible due to insufficient precipitation or other factors, the use of groundwater becomes the only viable alternative for irrigation. The Remila Plain (Khenchela) is located in an endorean watershed in northeastern Algeria and extends over 250 km2 in a synclinal basin filled with water from the Mio-Plio Quaternary - the main aquifer of the region, widely used for irrigation. The aim of this work is to study the hydrochemistry of these waters, as well as the evolution of mineralisation, the identification of the origin of the chemistry, and the suitability of these waters for irrigation. Initial results indicate an evolution of mineralisation in the direction of groundwater flow, with electrical conductivity values varying between 1000μS/cm in the recharge zones, and 2700μS/cm at the outlet. This mineralisation is mainly due to the dissolution of evaporitic minerals and the alteration of silicates. In addition, the various water quality indices used indicate that the water can be used for irrigation without major risk to plants and soils.

Assessment of Groundwater Quality and Vulnerability in the Nakivale Sub-Catchment of the Transboundary Lake Victoria Basin, Uganda

This study evaluates the quality and vulnerability of groundwater within the Nakivale Sub-catchment of the transboundary Lake Victoria Basin in Southwestern Uganda. Groundwater quality assessment focuses on its suitability for both drinking and agricultural uses. Hydrochemical analysis of 19 groundwater samples revealed that 90% comply with World Health Organization drinking water standards, although localized contamination was noted, particularly in terms of total iron, nitrate, potassium, magnesium, and sulfates. The drinking groundwater quality index shows that over 90% of the samples fall within the good-to-excellent quality categories. Elevated nitrate levels and chloride–bromide ratios indicate human impacts, likely due to agricultural runoff and wastewater disposal. For irrigation, Sodium Adsorption Ratio analysis revealed medium-to-high salinity hazards in the region, while Sodium Percentage and other parameters indicated low-to-moderate risks of soil degradation. DRASTIC vulnerability assessments identified low contamination risks due to impermeable geological layers, steep terrain, slow groundwater recharge, deep aquifer depth, and clayey soil cover. These findings emphasize the need for conjunctive water resource management, including improved groundwater quality monitoring, public education on sustainable practices, and protective measures for recharge zones and areas highly susceptible to contamination. By addressing these issues, this study aims to preserve groundwater resources for domestic and agricultural use, ensuring long-term sustainability in the region.

Assessment of Groundwater Quality and Fluoride Contamination in Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri Districts, Tamil Nadu, India

ABSTRACTFluoride is highly threatening to human health, and it is a serious issue worldwide, especially in India, because several states in India are at high risk of fluoride contamination in drinking water. In this study, the groundwater from Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri districts was chosen for estimation of quality and fluoride level. The 20 samples were collecetd from two districts, water quality and fluoride were estimated using standard protocols. The results showed that in Dharmapur districts, including Dharmapuri and Morappur, the water quality was very poor and the water was in bad condition, and also the water quality and fluoride levels were above the acceptable limits of WHO and TWAD board norms. In Krishnagiri district, such as Hosur, and Larger domestic water samples were highly polluted. The Pochampalli and Hangar, Anjetti, and area ground waters were in poor condition, the rest of the area's water quality and fluoride level are moderate, and may increase in the upcoming years. The quality of water and fluoride levels have crossed the permissible limits of WHO and TWAD board standards in several sites of Krishnagiri and Dharmapuri districts. Frequent monitoring, more awareness programs, fluoride removal advanced eco‐friendly, and highly efficient technologies are needed to manage these pollutants issues.

Assessment of groundwater quality of unconfined aquifers in an urbanized area using the water quality index method.

This study performed an evaluation of the groundwater quality of unconfined aquifers in Yangzhou, located in the Yangtze River Delta, eastern China. The study area is the source area of the Eastern Route (ER) of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project (SNWDP), typical of the lower alluvial plain of the lower Yangtze River. Water samples from monitoring wells and domestic wells were collected to analyze common variables (pH, EC), major ions, trace metals, etc. The water quality index method was employed to evaluate groundwater quality in both eastern and western parts of the study area. The study found that the groundwater hydrochemistry is typical of HCO3-Ca and HCO3-Na, similar between the eastern and western parts of the study area. In addition, the eastern part of the study area is more affected by nitrate pollution than the western part due to agricultural activities. The water quality analysis suggests that the groundwater in the western region was slightly better than that in the eastern region. The comparison between different scenarios indicates that the water quality using only major ions can differ significantly from that using all chemical parameters, but may offer some preliminary insights into the groundwater quality useful for conducting further more detailed analysis. Our study shows that using the combination of major ions and heavy metals could provide relatively robust results of the groundwater quality in our study area. Our study has important implications for the assessment of groundwater quality in regions with similar conditions.

Groundwater quality assessment and pollution sources identification using statistical analyses at Missan Governorate, Southeast Iraq

The shortage in surface water quantities led to a shift in dependence on the groundwater as an alternative water source in southern parts of Iraq. The groundwater is decreasing in quantity and water quality is degrading due to different factors. Therefore, it is important to assess the groundwater quality of the Missan Governorate of the country by analyzing the physicochemical parameters and distinguishing the probable sources of contaminants in the area. The present study used water quality diagrams and statistical methods such as factor analysis and agglomerative cluster analysis to determine the sources of chemical ions in the forty-four groundwater samples collected from wells in the study area. In addition, the Water Quality Index (WQI) was calculated to evaluate the groundwater quality by combining the parameters into a single index. The WQI results varied from − 66.27 to 1064.13 indicating that the groundwater is unsuitable for drinking at various places and good in quality at most of the wells of the area. The main factors that contribute to the differences in the groundwater quality include the variation in geological materials, influence of climate such as the high rate of evaporation, and anthropogenic factors such as industrial activities in central areas such as oil production in the Bazergan oil field. The most affected wells by the petroleum industry that were clustering in cluster R1which show high levels in most water chemistries. The results have implications for the management of the groundwater resources, which are expected to be under more risk of contamination in near future.

Fluoride and nitrogen contamination and potential health risks in the groundwater of a typical agricultural region

ABSTRACT Fluoride and nitrogen contamination is a global concern and has been a serious problem in agricultural areas. This study aims to identify the source of fluoride and nitrogen in the groundwater and assess groundwater quality and human health risks in the Guanzhong Plain, northwest China. The results showed that the concentrations were 0.15–4.74 mg/L for F−, 0.02–89.89 mg/L for NO3−-N, and BDL-2.40 mg/L for NH4+-N in groundwater. Distinct area-dependent distributions of fluoride and nitrogen were observed in the study region. Higher F− and NO3−-N concentrations in groundwater were detected in the northern part, and higher NH4+-N levels were observed in the southern part. Water–rock interaction and agricultural activities were the controlling factors for fluoride and nitrogen distribution in groundwater. About 80% of samples are considered to have good water quality with a Water Quality Index (WQI) < 100. Exposure to fluoride and nitrogen through drinking should require more attention. The total non-carcinogenic risks through oral ingestion of groundwater were 0.22–3.19 for adults and 0.51–7.44 for children, respectively. The order of pollutants in the groundwater in terms of their hazard to residents was F− > NH4+-N > NO3−-N > NO2−-N. The findings of this study could provide more insights into groundwater management.

Hydrochemical assessment of groundwater utilizing statistical analysis, integrated geochemical methods, and EWQI: a case study of Laiwu region, North China.

The investigation of groundwater quality and hydrochemical assessment holds immense significance in safeguarding and ensuring the rational utilization of groundwater resources. This study utilizes groundwater sampling and testing data from the Laiwu region (LWR), encompassing both dry and wet seasons, to delve into the hydrochemical characteristics, ion sources, and overall groundwater quality. The research findings indicate that the groundwater in LWR exhibits weak alkalinity, with the dominant ions being Ca2+ followed by Mg2+, Na+, and K+, and HCO3-, SO42-, NO3-, Cl-, and F-. The average total dissolved solids (TDS) concentrations during the dry and wet seasons are recorded as 683mg/L and 679mg/L, respectively, classifying LWR's groundwater primarily as hard-fresh water. The spatial pattern of TDS concentration in LWR displays consistency throughout both the dry and wet seasons, with relatively low TDS levels observed in the northern and southeastern regions and higher concentrations in the lower reaches of the Dawen River and nearby Gangcheng. Predominantly, Ca2+, Mg2+, and HCO3- ions in groundwater originate from the dissolution of calcite and dolomite, with the hydrogeochemical process of carbonate rock weathering involving the presence of sulfuric acid. It is noteworthy that human activities significantly impact the chemical composition of groundwater in LWR. Notably, during the dry and wet seasons, the average concentration of NO3- in groundwater is 102.81 and 106.61mg/L respectively, and the analysis shows that agricultural practice is the main source. Furthermore, the calculated average values of the entropy water quality index (EWQI) during those seasons are 58.44 and 57.24, respectively. The EWQI shows good to moderate water quality in most areas, except for a few poor-quality spots in the west. It is worth mentioning that LWR's groundwater is deemed suitable for agricultural irrigation. These research findings provide valuable insights and serve as a significant reference for the rational development and sustainable utilization of groundwater resources in the LWR region.

Assessment of groundwater quality and public health risks: physicochemical and bacteriological analysis in the Casablanca-Settat region, Morocco

ABSTRACT This study reports groundwater contamination in Morocco’s Casablanca-Settat region and observes groundwater quality trends, using Moroccan, EU and WHO standards. High mineralisation was attributed to soil composition and extensive agriculture. Bacteriological analysis indicated significant faecal contamination, with a positive correlation between bacterial load (TC, EC, IE) and physicochemical parameters (NO3–, NH4+, and oxidisability), as nitrates and ammonium provide nutrients for bacterial growth, thus explaining the direct correlation. The study highlights the region’s deteriorating groundwater quality.

Hydrochemical assessment of groundwater quality in the coastal belt of Sindh, Pakistan: Implications for human health

Hydrochemical assessment of groundwater quality in the coastal belt of Sindh, Pakistan: Implications for human health

Hydrochemical Assessment of Groundwater Quality in the City of Manga and the Surrounding Area, Burkina Faso, West Africa

Hydrochemical Assessment of Groundwater Quality in the City of Manga and the Surrounding Area, Burkina Faso, West Africa

Assessment of Groundwater Quality in the Semi-Arid Environment: Implications of Climate Change

The hydrogeochemical properties and evolution of groundwater in the Essaouira syncline basin in northwestern Morocco were investigated in this study, with a total of 447 samples during different campaigns (April 2017, May 2018, March 2019, and July 2020). These samples were analyzed for major ions and stable and radioactive water isotopes (δ2H, δ18O, and 3H). With decreasing rainfall from climate change in Morocco, it is crucial to assess the sustainability of groundwater reserves. This shortage leads to the degradation of water and soil quality. To ensure sustainable water management and preserve the environment in the study area, it is necessary to assess groundwater quality for drinking and irrigation, take precautions, and establish management plans. This study assessed groundwater quality using two water quality index methods (WQI and IWQI). Several natural processes control groundwater mineralization, including the dissolution of evaporite and carbonate minerals, cation exchange phenomena, evaporation, and seawater intrusion. According to the results obtained using the WQI method, all groundwater samples in the study area are generally of poor quality and must be treated before being used for domestic purposes. Based on the results obtained by the IWQI method, the samples are suitable for use as irrigation water, especially for plants resistant to high salinity concentrations. Stable isotope measurements (δ2H and δ18O) indicate that Atlantic precipitation continuously recharges the recharge areas of the Essaouira Basin. Thus, the low values of tritium (3H) in groundwater mean that the freshwater in the Essaouira Basin is ancient.

Geochemical assessment of groundwater quality for domestic, irrigation and industrial purposes: a tool for environmental monitoring and assessment in a semiarid region of eastern Maharashtra, India

The hydrochemistry of groundwater in the Mann River basin, situated in eastern Maharashtra, was investigated through laboratory analysis with the aim of determining its suitability for consumption, agriculture, and industry. A total of 43 groundwater samples were collected from bore wells and dug wells across the basin for evaluation. Parameters including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), total hardness (TH), and various cations and anions were examined in comparison with established standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Piper diagram analysis revealed that a significant portion of the samples fell into the CaMgHCO3 hydrochemical facies, while the Gibbs diagram suggested rock dominance in most samples. The drinking water quality index was calculated based on 11 parameters, with 52% of the samples falling into the excellent water category. The irrigation suitability assessment was based on parameters like the sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), percent sodium (%Na), and permeability index (PI), revealing that the majority of the samples were appropriate for irrigation. Moreover, assessments of industrial suitability rely on factors such as the Langelier saturation index (LSI) and Ryznar stability index (RSI) to estimate corrosion potential, with most samples showing a high propensity for corrosion and calcium carbonate deposition. Binary correlation effects were observed, suggesting that the presence of one physiochemical parameter could influence others. GIS-based maps were generated to precisely assess corrosion indices for effectively monitoring and managing water quality in the study area. This study is crucial as it evaluates the groundwater quality for its suitability for drinking, agriculture, and industry. It identifies groundwater’s chemical characteristics, irrigation potential, and corrosion risks, offering key insights for water management, ensuring safe consumption, and supporting agricultural and industrial applications.

Assessment of Groundwater Quality Under Unplanned Urban Environment: a Case Study From Vellore City, Tamilnadu, India

Assessment of Groundwater Quality Under Unplanned Urban Environment: a Case Study From Vellore City, Tamilnadu, India

Groundwater quality in Sargodha City, Pakistan: Comprehensive research of geochemical modeling, groundwater quality assessment, and risk evaluation

Groundwater, an indispensable global resource, faces escalating contamination threats, jeopardizing human health and environmental sustainability. This study offers detailed insights into the quality of the groundwater, its drinking suitability, and associated human health risks in Sargodha City, Pakistan. Employing hydrogeochemical analysis, inverse geochemical modeling, groundwater quality index, and human health risk evaluation, this research highlights widespread exceedances of WHO drinking water standards, particularly in TDS, EC, TH, Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, SO42−, Cl−, HCO3−, NO3–N, and As levels, signifying that a significant portion of the groundwater is unfit for consumption. Hydrochemical facies analysis reveals a dominance of the Na–Cl type. Water–rock interactions, cation exchange, and anthropogenic influences are the primary factors shaping groundwater hydrochemistry in the region. Saturation indices and inverse geochemical modeling demonstrated intricate geochemical processes involving both mineral precipitation and dissolution. Notably, the GWQI reveals a diverse spectrum of water quality, with 50% of the samples exhibiting excellent to good quality, 29% falling into the poor to extremely poor category, and 21% deemed unfit for drinking. Health risk assessment reveals alarming carcinogenic risks from As, affecting children (70.8%) and adults (83.35%), while 8.3% of the samples indicate non-carcinogenic risks. Conversely, NO3–N presents acceptable non-carcinogenic risks across all samples. The total hazard index spans between 0.14 and 1.90 for adults and 0.16 to 2.23 for children, underscoring the heightened vulnerability of children. This study advances the understanding of groundwater contamination dynamics in urbanized regions, offering insights to safeguard public health and ensure sustainable water management in areas with similar hydrogeochemical conditions.