Temporal Hydrogeochemical Dynamics and Source Apportionment in Groundwater of a Complex Lithology.

Abstract

The present research reports the level of major ions and other physical parameters like pH, EC and TDS and possible sources of contamination in groundwater from south India. A total of 138 groundwater samples were collected during four different seasons and analyzed for physical parameters and other major ions. Many samples are above or approaching the recommended level of ions for safe drinking water. The groundwater quality has been determined by considering 11 parameters and classified into 5 different categories based upon water quality index (WQI) value. The groundwater of the study area is approaching towards pollution which has to consider for future management of the resource. Different geochemical diagrams like Gibbs and Piper are used to evaluate the process affecting the composition of groundwater. Again, the geostatistical techniques applied to confirm the processes through an integrated approach. Based on result of geochemical investigation, the contamination sources in the groundwater of this region are likely to be from (a) Anthropogenic activities (b) Weathering (c) Agricultural fertilizers. Continuous consumption of such water may pose serious health risk to the residents.