Variation Of Groundwater Quality Research Articles

Assessment of groundwater quality variation characteristics and influencing factors in an intensified agricultural area: An integrated hydrochemical and machine learning approach

The decline in groundwater quality in intensive agricultural areas in recent years, driven by environmental change and intensified human activity, poses a significant threat to agricultural production and public health, requiring attention and effective management. However, distinguishing the specific impacts of various factors on groundwater quality remains challenging, which hinders the effective management and prevention of groundwater pollution. This research integrates a hydrochemical analysis with the Entropy-weighted Water Quality Index, Self-Organizing Map (SOM) approach, and Boruta algorithm to investigate groundwater chemical variations and their influencing factors in the Sanjiang Plain, an important grain-producing region in China. The findings reveal that, compared to 2012, the deep groundwater quality has improved, while the shallow groundwater quality has markedly deteriorated. This decline in shallow groundwater quality is primarily attributable to human activities and is characterized by elevated levels of chloride, sulfate, and nitrate and a shift in the groundwater hydrochemical facies from an HCO3−Ca·Mg type to a mixed HCO3−Ca·Mg and SO4·Cl−Ca·Mg type. The SOM results suggested that land use type significantly affects shallow groundwater quality. Further analysis with the Boruta algorithm identified increased sewage and manure emissions from expanding livestock operations as well as enhanced pollutant leakage from the expansion of paddy fields as the primary contributors to the decline in shallow groundwater quality. These findings offer new insights into the mechanisms of groundwater quality changes in agriculturally intensive regions and provide a foundation for improved groundwater pollution management in the Sanjiang Plain and similar areas.

Multivariate statistical and hydrogeochemical analysis of seasonal groundwater quality variations in coastal villages of Trivandrum district, south India

This study attempts a detailed assessment of the quality of groundwater in the coastal region of Trivandrum District, Kerala where groundwater is the main source of drinking water. Forty groundwater samples were collected during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods. The collected samples were analyzed for physical properties such as electrical conductivity (EC), pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), and total hardness, along with chemical properties, including major cations (Ca2⁺, Mg2⁺, Na⁺, K⁺) and anions (Cl⁻, SO₄2⁻, HCO₃⁻, NO₃⁻). The analysis of groundwater quality reveals significant spatial and seasonal variations caused by both natural and manmade influences. Water Quality Index (WQI), hydrogeochemical plots, and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) were used to analyses the data. The results show that Vakkom, Kazhakottam, Veli-Attipara, and Pozhiyoor show significant deterioration, and areas such as Varkala, Ayroor, and Edava generally maintain good water quality. The Water Quality Index (WQI) assessment indicates that approximately 22.5% of the studied area falls under excellent quality, while 17.5% is classified as poor. The WHO standard and BSI standards were used to derive the WQI. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) identified electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, and total hardness as the primary factors affecting groundwater quality, explaining 65.17% and 61.03% of the total variance in the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods, respectively. Hydrochemical plots collaborate these results, emphasize the influence of rock-water interactions as the main geochemical process, further compounded by pollution from agricultural runoff and urban development. These findings highlight the need for sustainable groundwater management strategies in coastal communities. Effective measures, including pollution mitigation, sustainable agricultural practice, proper waste management, and preservation of freshwater ecosystems, are essential for ensuring the sustainability of groundwater resources.

Seasonal variation of groundwater quality in a basement complex geology of Ado Ekiti Nigeria using water quality index model

Seasonal variation of groundwater quality in a basement complex geology of Ado Ekiti Nigeria using water quality index model

Assessing sources of groundwater quality and health risks using graphical, multivariate, and index techniques from a part of Rajasthan, India

Groundwater provides sustainable potable water in developing countries like India. However, contaminated groundwater directly affects human health. The United Nation policy is to provide clean water for all by 2030. Therefore, groundwater samples collected from a part of Rajasthan, India were analysed for chemical parameters to identify the sources of groundwater quality variation and associated health risks. To achieve this objective, a comprehensive approach of entropy water quality index (EWQI), Piper and Gibbs diagrams, ionic ratios (IR), synthetic pollution index (SPI), principal component analysis (PCA), and non-carcinogenic health risk (NHR) methods were used. EWQI revealed that groundwater quality was not fit for drinking in 81.86% of the area due to higher TDS, Na+, , , , and contents, which was statistically significant by ANOVA test. Modified Piper’s diagram identified Ca2+ - , Ca2+ - , Na+- , and Na+ - types in 36.67%, 22.73%, 13.64%, and 27.27% of groundwater samples, respectively. Gibbs diagrams illustrated that 59.09% and 40.81% of groundwater samples fell in the rock and evaporation domains, respectively. Ionic ratios demonstrated that geogenic processes (mineral dissolution, ion exchange, and evaporation) and anthropogenic activities cause groundwater quality degradation. PCA indicated that PC1 has high loadings of TDS, Mg2+, Na+, , and , PC2 shows high loadings of pH and , and PC3 represents high loadings of , K+, and , which was further supported by t-test analysis. SPI revealed that 99.82% of the study area is polluted. NHR values (0.03 to 1.68, 0.02 to 1.29, and 0.03 to 1.30 for children, women, and men, respectively) showed that long-term exposure to and -containing drinking water poses a higher health risk to children compared to men and women. Regular water quality monitoring, sanitation facilities, limited application of agrochemicals, etc. were suggested. Such a study would aid environmental public health programs.

Evaluation of Groundwater Quality for Drinking in Various Districts of Jammu and Kashmir with Special Emphasis on Kashmir

Abstract: In India, groundwater is a valuable resource for humans, yet human activity has consistently reduced its quality. For the management of groundwater resources to be sustainable, an assessment of the quality of the groundwater is required. With the use of integrated-weight water quality index and multivariate statistical techniques, this study sought to assess the groundwater quality in the Indian area of Kashmir for drinking purposes. Eight water quality measures were included in the data, which came from 50 observation wells and included pH, total hardness, nitrate (NO3−), iron (Fe), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), arsenic (As), and coliforms. The integrated-weight water quality index (IWQI), principal component analysis (PCA), and cluster analysis (CA) were used to examine various districts. The majority of the metrics, according to the results, were within acceptable ranges, however some areas had excessive hardness and Fe contamination. More than 76% of samples had significant coliform contamination found in them. With four clusters of sample locations, the CA results showed that geological locations had a significant influence on groundwater quality. A PCA's three main components may account for 64.8% of the variation in groundwater quality. Groundwater quality was categorized as excellent (74.11%), good (45%), poor (6.4%), very poor (2.9), and undrinkable (9.4) based on IWQI values ranging from 4 to 2761. These classifications were linked to coliform contamination. These results have shed light on the region's groundwater quality state, which is helpful in creating a plan to safeguard the water supply.

Assessment of Spatial Variation in Terrain Parameters Impacting Surface and Groundwater Quality for Sustainable Geo-Environmental Management

Soil and water conservation measures crucial for quality enhancement should focus on terrain-specific challenges. Evaluating groundwater resources from wells in the area is essential to ascertain their appropriateness for different applications. In semiarid tropical regions, the risk of inland salinity can escalate under extreme conditions like droughts and reduced monsoonal rainfall. During droughts, the groundwater table declines, leading to deterioration in groundwater quality, making it unsuitable for consumption, industrial processes, and arboriculture. In this scenario, analysing the spatial variation in water quality parameters becomes crucial for safeguarding environmental geology and effectively managing the geo-environment of impacted regions. Unfavourable geo-environmental conditions can be mitigated by reducing surface and groundwater pollution, sheet erosion, landslides, and land subsidence. Examining the variation in groundwater quality across both spatial and temporal dimensions is necessary to recommend treatments that make groundwater suitable for various uses, including potable purposes. The spatial as well as temporal variations of different water quality parameters, determined through a composite water quality index, can inform land use alterations, resource exploitation without unacceptable consequences, and artificial recharge measures that do not pollute the geo-environment. Enhancing the sustainability of the geo-environment can be achieved by investigating and prioritizing conservation measures and practices. Employing temporal remote sensing alongside related datasets facilitates the assessment of delineated watersheds within the region through the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) Model. This approach is essential for prioritizing watersheds and formulating strategic action plans to sustain a balanced geo-environment.

Unveiling nitrate contamination and health risks: Insights from groundwater quality assessment and Monte Carlo simulation along the Southern Caspian Sea Coasts

Groundwater resources are at great risk of contamination due to increased industrial and agricultural activities, population growth and urban expansion. This study investigated factors controlling spatio-temporal variability in groundwater quality and nitrate concentration at the southern coast of Caspian Sea, Iran to provide public health risk assessment. Na-Cl (44.8%) and Ca-HCO3 (58.6%) types water were the dominant hydrogeochemical facies in dry and wet seasons, respectively. Most of the examined groundwater samples were found unfit for drinking but appropriate for agricultural irrigation. The chemistry of groundwater predominantly influenced by combination of local lithology and ion exchange in aquifer as well as seawater intrsuin. Nitrate concentration varied from 0.05 to 200 mg/L with a mean value of 33.1 mg/L in which 13.7% and 27.5% of samples showed concentration higher than WHO's recommended value in dry and wet seasons, respectively. The highest nitrate concentrations were observed at locations in proximity to human settlements including cities, villages as well as agricultural lands. The identified pollution hotspots confirm nitrate contributions from un-treated wastewater effluents and agricultural practices with minimum contribution from industrial activities. The result of Monte Carlo simulation revealed that children were at highest risk from drinking of groundwater containing nitrate. This study highlights the urgent need for action to address the growing threat to groundwater quality and public health posed by contamination from various sources in the southern coasts of Caspian Sea.

Cultivating sustainability: a multi-assessment of groundwater quality and irrigation suitability in the arid agricultural district of Dzira (Ksour Mountains, Algeria).

Groundwater serves a range of essential functions such as supplying drinking water, facilitating agricultural practices, and supporting industrial processes. This study examines with multiple methods the quality of groundwater in the agricultural region of Dzira, Algeria. By collecting 38 groundwater samples of different wells and boreholes, valuable awareness of the aptness of groundwater for irrigation in this arid landscape was gained. Most wells met Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) criteria for the total dissolved solids (TDS) and the potential of hydrogen pH, but some areas had higher mineral content and electrical conductivity. Results show significant TDS variations, with 10.81% of wells exceeding limits and acceptable pH levels. Elevated EC values in 67.57% of wells show high salinity, affecting soil and plant growth. Major ions such as Mg2+ and SO4- exceeded FAO standards in 43.24% and 64.86% of wells, respectively, highlighting substantial mineral content in the groundwater. Suitability indices reveal that most wells pose low sodium hazards and are generally suitable for irrigation, though some areas face moderate to high restrictions. The irrigation water quality index (IWQI) ranged from 45.36 to 96.30, averaging 80.77, with 54.04% classified as "low restriction," suitable for sandy soils with good permeability but requiring caution on salt-sensitive soils. Hydrogeochemical analysis using principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) identifies rapid evaporite dissolution from Triassic saline formations, with a correlation matrix showing associations between TDS and Ca2⁺, Mg2⁺, Na⁺, Cl⁻, and SO₄2⁻. This mineralization is likely from gypsum and halite. Zoning maps based on IWQI and other parameters depicted spatial variations in groundwater quality, guiding effective irrigation management strategies. Overall, the study underscores the importance of comprehensive water quality assessment for sustainable agriculture and emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to mitigate potential challenges associated with soil salinity and sodicity. Therefore, these findings can be useful to decision-makers and stakeholders in order to optimize water use and protect this vital resource.

Evaluating groundwater vulnerability and assessing its quality for sustainable management

Areas with a dry climate constitute about 15% of the Earth's surface, so groundwater can be considered a safe alternative available for people who are living in these areas. Groundwater has special advantages compared to surface water in terms of spatiotemporal presence, high stability, easy access, and often of high quality and capable of resisting pollution and could be the alternative to solve the problem of water shortage.The current study evaluated Irrigation Water Quality Indices (WQIs) as well as the predicting of GIS maps to evaluate groundwater resources for agricultural uses in Al-Najaf city. 24 samples were taken from the existing wells and examined for the characteristics relating the groundwater quality. Total hardness (TH), Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR), Residual Sodium Carbonate (RSC), Soluble Sodium Percentage (SSP), Magnesium Hazard (MH), Permeability Index (PI), and Kelley's Index (KI) were among the irrigation indices that were assessed and evaluated. The results showed that 95.8% of sites fall within the region of extremely high salinity danger /low sodium, and 4.2% of sites fall onto the medium sodium water class, Concerning SSP and RSC all samples are considered of good quality, 95.8% of samples are suitable for irrigation based on Kelly's Ratio index, while only 4.2% regarded unsuitable. The final WQIs values were exported to the ArcMap software to create the final study area's water quality indices maps. Conducting spatial variability of groundwater quality is essential for making reliable groundwater quality interpretations and for making accurate predictions of quality at any particular site, there must be a continuous salinity and contaminants concentrations checking up calculations in case there were a need for groundwater desalination process.

Impacts of land use changes on the spatiotemporal evolution of groundwater quality in the Yinchuan area, China, based on long-term monitoring data

Agricultural activities and rapid urbanization have significantly impacted groundwater quality, especially in semi-arid and arid regions. This study comprehensively evaluated the quality of phreatic and confined groundwater in the Yinchuan area, China, using long-term monitoring data from 1991 to 2018. Geospatial analysis model was employed to explore the spatiotemporal evolution of groundwater hydrochemistry. The effects of land use changes on groundwater quality were assessed using correlation analysis and a multiple linear regression model (MLR). The findings indicate significant temporal variations in groundwater quality, with phreatic water consistently exhibiting high salinity and hardness. The groundwater quality indices for phreatic water were frequently more polluted than confined water. From 1991 to 2018, the hydrochemical composition of phreatic water evolved from HCO3-Mg and HCO3•SO4-Mg to more complex forms such as HCO3•SO4•Cl-Mg and HCO3•Cl-Mg. In contrast, confined water predominantly maintained its HCO3-Mg type and HCO3•Cl-Na (Na•Mg) type water. Urban land had rapidly expanded in the past three decades, increasing by 318.75% compared to 1991. The water body and urban area diminished the quality of phreatic water. High salt water in increase of TDS, Cl–, SO42–, Mn, TH, NO3–, F–, and Fe into phreatic water. NO3–, NH4+, and F− in phreatic water could be impacted by human and industrial activity in urban areas. This study provides valuable insights for local decision-makers to effectively manage groundwater resources and solve issues of groundwater scarcity and water quality problems in arid and semi-arid locations.

GIS based geostatistical modelling and trends analysis of groundwater quality for suitable uses in Dhaka division

Preserving the quality of groundwater has become Bangladesh’s primary challenge in recent years. This study explores temporal trend variations in groundwater quality on a broader scale across 18 stations within the Dhaka division over 35 years. The data set encompasses an analysis of 15 distinct water quality parameters. Modified Mann-Kendal, Sens Slope and Mann-Kendal tests were performed to determine the trend’s variation and slope. In addition, the spatial–temporal changes in the quality of groundwater are studied through Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping and Piper diagram was applied to identify the unique hydrochemical properties. This is the first study conducted on this area using various trends analysis and no in-depth study is available highlighting the trends analysis of groundwater quality on a larger magnitude. In contrast, the correlation matrix reveals a high association between Mg2+ and SO42−, Na+ and Cl− that affects salinity and overall hardness at the majority of sites. The Piper diagram also demonstrates that the groundwater in Madaripur Sadar has major salinity issues. The analysis reveals a distinctive dominance of bicarbonate (HCO3−) ions across all sampling stations, with (HCO3−) equivalent fractions consistently ranging from 0.70 to 0.99 which can cause a significant impact on groundwater uses. This extensive analysis of long-term groundwater quality trends in the Dhaka Division enables researchers to comprehend the overall transition of groundwater quality for hardness related complications in future. Moreover, it can be a baseline study considering the valuable implications and future steps for sustainable water resource management in this region.

Anthropogenic Drivers of Spatial Trends in Groundwater Quality in the Upper Athi River Basin of Kenya, East Africa

Rapid urbanization and population growth in the upper Athi River basin in Kenya have increased the strain on the sub catchments water supply and sanitation situation. Due to increasing demand, inadequate supply of drinking water and lack of sanitation facilities, people in the sub-catchment are increasingly reliant on groundwater as a primary or supplementary water source. However, the use of on-site wastewater systems and agricultural pollution, mainly from runoff containing fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and faeces, pose a threat to groundwater in the sub catchment. Subsequently, the current study was conducted in the Thiririka sub catchment, Kiambu County, Kenya, to determine the safety of groundwater sources and to examine the factors influencing groundwater quality in the catchment area. This study assessed the influence of anthropogenic activities on the physical, chemical, and bacteriological quality of groundwater in the Upper Athi River basin of Kenya between April and June 2022. Twenty variables were analyzed and compared with water quality standards to determine hydro chemical characteristics, evidence of contamination, and suitability of groundwater. Shallow wells (SW) had higher concentrations of major ions and key parameters than boreholes (BH), such as alkalinity (7%), turbidity (96%), nitrates (92%), sulfates (48%), phosphates (93%), chlorides (77%), potassium (84%), sodium (30%) and fecal coliforms (99%) significant at p < 0.01. Concentrations of eleven water quality variables however were comparable in both systems. Farming, animal husbandry, and pit latrines were negatively but significantly correlated with the water quality of SW explaining substantial amounts of variation (≤ 45%) in concentrations of water quality variables. Ionic and coliform levels increased with decreasing distance and vice versa. IDW interpolation maps were generated in ArcGIS software to determine the spatial variability of groundwater quality in the basin. Anthropogenic activities such as pit latrines and animal husbandry impaired the quality of groundwater which in most cases was not potable.

Studies on Seasonal Variation of Groundwater Quality in the Suddagedda Basin, Eastgodavari District, A.P.

Studies on Seasonal Variation of Groundwater Quality in the Suddagedda Basin, Eastgodavari District, A.P.

Early Warning of Regional Groundwater Pollution： A Case Study for Plain Area of Barkol-Yiwu Basin

Groundwater pollution early warning is an effective means for regional groundwater pollution prevention. The groundwater pollution early warning model coupled with the current situation of groundwater quality, groundwater quality variation trend, and groundwater pollution risk were applied to the plain area of Barkol-Yiwu Basin, and the regional scale groundwater pollution early warning was realized by combining the early warning of groundwater quality status and trend. The TOPSIS method based on comprehensive weight was used to evaluate the current situation of groundwater quality. The variation trend of groundwater quality was analyzed by calculating the trend interpolation results of 18 in-situ groundwater quality monitoring wells. The groundwater vulnerability map, groundwater pollution load map, and groundwater function value map were superimposed using the superposition index method to evaluate groundwater pollution risk. The results showed that the groundwater quality was good and relatively good, and the poor groundwater quality in some areas was mainly affected by the shallow groundwater depth and the large porosity of the vadose zone. Groundwater quality was stable from 2011 to 2022, mainly due to the leakage of wastewater generated by industries and agriculture into groundwater, resulting in the deterioration of groundwater quality in some areas. Groundwater pollution risk was generally low, and the dual effects of high vulnerability and high pollution load of groundwater led to local areas with high pollution risk. The early warning level of groundwater pollution was generally low, and the heavy and highly heavy warning areas accounted for 16.4% and 17.5% of the study area, respectively, mainly distributed in Xiamaya Township of Yiwu County and northern Santanghu Town, Dahongliuxia Township, and Dahe Town of Barkol County. The quaternary sediments exposed were mainly sandy pebbles, with developed pores and strong water permeability. The interception and adsorption capacity of pollutants were weak. Pollutants produced by industries, agriculture, and life easily leaked into groundwater aquifers, resulting in poor groundwater quality and high risk of groundwater pollution, which ultimately led to a high early warning level of groundwater pollution in some areas. The research on early warning of groundwater pollution provided an important theoretical basis for the development of groundwater pollution remediation.

Hydrogeochemical processes, and health risk assessment of groundwater, in Santa María del rio aquifer: A case study of San Luis Potosí valley, Mexico

The main objectives of this research were to the hydrogeochemical processes that control the groundwater chemistry, groundwater quality, and assessment of health risks of water. The drinking water that supplies the community of Santa María del Rio, S.L.P., comes from groundwater, in some municipality localities, groundwater Fluorine and arsenic are reported. Twenty-one representative groundwater samples were taken. Physicochemical parameters in situ: pH, OD, ORP, Alkalinity, STD, EC, Salinity, Total Coliforms, and E-coli, were analyzed, and in the laboratory, the heavy metals, metalloids and major constituents, cations: calcium, sodium, magnesium, and potassium, were determined by the ICP, and anions: chlorides, and sulfates, by colorimetry techniques. The results of the analyses were compared with the Mexican and EPA drinking water standards to verify their suitability and ensure that they do not exceed the permitted limit values. The results of the chemistry of the principal groundwater ions in the study area suggest that the main hydrogeochemical process that controls the variation of groundwater quality is the rock–water interaction. Groundwater has been classified into two hydrochemical facies, CaMgHCO3 and NaHCO3, consistent with the type of rock. The samples with the CaMg–HCO3 facie are associated with less evolved waters located in areas with local recharge. The dominant reactions in the aquifer are calcite, dolomite, and gypsum solutions. The presence of the N–NO3- ion is associated with agricultural and urban zone influence, which indicates that this activity has impacted the water quality. The risk index (HI) results show that values > 0.1 < 1 of HI, for Pb present low chronic risks for adults and children. In contrast, HI values > 4 for both population groups represent high chronic risk. Excessive use of fertilizers should be controlled in the study area to prevent groundwater contamination by heavy metals and metalloids and be measured regularly to check drinking water quality.

Groundwater Quality Assessment in the Middle-Upper Pleistocene Aquifer

The study was conducted to assess groundwater quality and identify the main pollution sources of groundwater in Hau Giang province, Vietnam. Groundwater samples were collected at five locations (GW1-GW5) at qp2-3 aquifer in May and October 2022. Principal component analysis (PCA), cluster analysis (CA), water pollution index (WPI), and groundwater quality index (GWQI) were applied in the study. The results revealed that the groundwater quality was influenced by TDS, NH4+-N, permanganate index, and Fe. On the basis of WPI, GW2 and GW3 had the lowest water quality, exceeding a value of 1. The results of GWQI showed that groundwater quality was divided into three categories (excellent, poor, and unsuitable for drinking) in May and four categories (good, poor, very poor, and unsuitable for drinking) in October. The study also revealed seasonal variations in groundwater quality, particularly in GW5 (Vi Thuy district, Hau Giang, Vietnam). The CA results formed four water quality groups in both periods based on the similarity of groundwater parameters. PCA results presented that the three PCs explained 79.55% of the variation in groundwater quality. Three potential sources of pollution are derived from the discharge of wastewater (domestic, industrial, and agricultural), landfilling, and seawater intrusion. Doi: 10.28991/CEJ-2024-010-07-018 Full Text: PDF

Assessment of spatio-temporal variations in groundwater quality for the groundwater-dependent Maltese islands

Study regionMaltese islands Study focusThe Maltese islands are situated in the Mediterranean Sea, characterized by a semi-arid climate, and encounter increased levels of water stress. This study conducted a hydrochemical analysis of 35 groundwater samples to evaluate the suitability of the current groundwater for agricultural and domestic purposes. Additionally, three-dimensional numerical modeling was conducted to estimate long-term changes in groundwater levels and saline water distributions over 30 years, under the assumption that groundwater pumping will persist at the current rate. New hydrological insights for the regionSalinity factors that classify groundwater in this region can potentially be used for the irrigation of salt-tolerant crops. The output of the modeling calculations suggests that groundwater levels were expected to decrease significantly across most of the island, particularly around gallery areas. Descending the water table may compromise the discharge of coastal groundwater and potentially accelerate seawater intrusion into the inner island areas. Hydrochemical calculations indicated that an increase in salinity induced variations in saturation conditions, leading to a decrease in calcite and an increase in anhydrite, dolomite, and gypsum. The water quality characteristics and contamination evaluations conducted in this study are valuable for the development of long-term alternatives for water resource conservation in this region.

A Comparative Study to Analyze the Validity of Well Water for Some Areas of Eastern and Western Diyala Governorate

General Background: Groundwater is a critical resource for many regions, particularly in arid and semi-arid areas, where surface water is scarce. Specific Background: In Diyala Governorate, Iraq, reliance on groundwater is high, especially in the northeastern and western regions, which use it extensively for domestic and agricultural purposes. Knowledge Gap: Despite its importance, there is limited comprehensive analysis comparing the quality and suitability of groundwater across different areas within the governorate. Aims: This study aims to analyze the chemical and physical properties of groundwater from selected wells in the northeastern (Khanaqin and Saadia) and western (Khalis and Dali Abbas) regions of Diyala Governorate to determine its suitability for use. Results: The analysis revealed a significant increase in nitrate concentrations, particularly in the western regions, with a value of 26.3 mg/L, and higher nitrite levels were also observed. The pH levels indicated a tendency toward acidity in the northeastern regions (7.1-7.2), whereas the western regions showed values closer to the acidity standard (7.05-7.45). The dissolved salts were notably lower in Khalis (575 mg/L). Novelty: The study uniquely highlights the variation in groundwater quality across different regions of the governorate, revealing critical discrepancies in water composition and well depth that have not been previously documented. Implications: These findings underscore the need for region-specific water management strategies in Diyala Governorate, particularly in the eastern regions where groundwater characteristics align more closely with international standards, making them more suitable for sustainable groundwater investment and utilization. Highlights: Significant regional differences in groundwater quality were observed. Higher nitrate/nitrite concentrations found in western regions. Eastern regions' groundwater closer to international standards. Keywords: Groundwater quality, Diyala Governorate, nitrate concentration, pH levels, water suitability

Assessing groundwater quality and its association with child undernutrition in India

Background and objectivesGroundwater contamination poses a significant health challenge in India, particularly impacting children. Despite its importance, limited research has explored the nexus between groundwater quality and child nutrition outcomes. This study addresses this gap, examining the association between groundwater quality and child undernutrition, offering pertinent insights for policymakers. Data and methodsThe study uses data from the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) and the Central Groundwater Board (CGWB) to analyze the association between groundwater quality and child nutritional status. The groundwater quality data were collected by nationwide monitoring stations programmed by CGWB, and the child undernutrition data were obtained from the NFHS-5, 2019–21. The analysis included descriptive and logistic regression model. The study also considers various demographic and socio-economic factors as potential moderators of the relationship between groundwater quality and child undernutrition. FindingsSignificant variation in groundwater quality was observed across India, with numerous regions displaying poor performance. Approximately 26.53 % of geographical areas were deemed unfit for consuming groundwater. Environmental factors such as high temperatures, low precipitation, and arid, alluvial, laterite-type soils are linked to poorer groundwater quality. Unfit-for-consumption groundwater quality increased the odds of undernutrition, revealing a 35 %, 38 %, and 11 % higher likelihood of stunting, underweight, and wasting in children, with higher pH, Magnesium, Sulphate, Nitrate, Total Dissolved Solids, and Arsenic, levels associated with increased odds of stunting, underweight, and wasting. Higher temperatures (>25 °C), high elevations (>1000 m), and proximity to cultivated or industrial areas all contribute to heightened risks of child undernutrition. Children consuming groundwater, lacking access to improved toilets, or living in rural areas are more likely to be undernourished, while females, higher-income households, and those consuming dairy, vegetables, and fruits daily exhibit lower odds of undernutrition. Policy implicationsPolicy implications highlight the urgent need for investment in piped water supply systems. Additionally, focused efforts are required to monitor and improve groundwater quality in regions with poor water quality. Policies should emphasize safe sanitation practices and enhance public awareness about the critical role of safe drinking water in improving child health.

Investigation of groundwater and its seasonal variation in a rural region in Natore, Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, groundwater is the most widely used source of drinking water for rural communities. However, the groundwater quality is degraded by natural contaminants and anthropogenic pollution. Groundwater is a reliable and sustainable source of safe water for irrigation and domestic purposes, especially during the dry season. The water quality assessment data for the study area was not found in the literature. This study aims to assess groundwater quality and seasonal variation in a rural area of five unions of Bagatipara Upazila, Natore, and its suitability for drinking purposes by measuring the Water Quality Index (WQI). The groundwater of five unions, namely Dayarampur, Bagatipara, Faguardiar, Jamnagar, and Pacca, has been selected for investigation. The electrical conductivity (EC), color, and turbidity exceeded the ECR guidelines. EC showed a positive correlation with total dissolved solids (TDS), total solids (TS), and turbidity. On the other hand, dissolved oxygen (DO), hardness, chloride, carbon-di-oxide (CO2), and iron (Fe) concentrations varied based on the location of the sampling points. The bacteriological parameters TC and E. coli were found in most of the samples, which indicate the potential sources of contaminants such as septic tank leakage and inadequate waste disposal systems. The groundwater quality was found not to be influenced by seasonal variation except by pH, DO, and CO2. The Water Quality Index (WQI) spatial mapping demonstrated that during the post-monsoon period, the water quality of the central part of Bagatipara upazila was in ‘good’ condition, which was in Bagatipara, Fagurdiar, and Pacca unions, whereas during the pre-monsoon season, the ‘good’ condition was found very limited to Fagurdiar union only. The study revealed that the groundwater of Bagtipara Upazila is not suitable for drinking water due to the presence of TC and E. Coli as well as ‘poor’ to ‘unsuitable’ conditions in most of the areas based on WQI.