Groundwater is the most important water resource, on which depends human geo-economic development and survival. Recent environmental changes and anthropogenic activities render groundwater severely vulnerable. Groundwater in Central Sindh, Pakistan, is facing a similar situation. Hydrogeochemical characteristics of the groundwater in the said region were investigated by analyzing 59 groundwater samples via agricultural and drinking indices, using various statistical methods and graphical approaches to identify factors affecting groundwater. Major reactions occurring in the groundwater system were quantified by hydrogeochemical modeling. A statistical summary reveals the abundance of cations is Na+ > Ca2+ > Mg2+ > K+, while the abundance of anions is HCO3− > Cl− > SO42. Groundwater chemistry is mainly of rock dominance. Correlation analysis and graphical relationships between ions reveal that ion exchange and rock weathering such as the dissolution of halite, albite, and dissolution of carbonate minerals are important rock–water interactions, governing the evolution of groundwater chemistry. Hydrochemical facies are predominantly of mixed CaMgCl and Na-Cl type, with few samples of Ca-HCO3 type, which constitutes fresh recharged water. Based on the Water Quality Index (WQI), 28.82% samples were found to be unsuitable for drinking. A United States Salinity Laboratory (USSL) diagram, Wilcox diagram, and other agricultural indices indicate that majority of the groundwater samples fall within the acceptable range for irrigation purposes.
Indus Basin represents a conjunctive system for ground and surface water use. From it, originates the world's largest irrigation system underlain a deep alluvium and well transmissive aquifer resulting in higher water table. At present, this area is at risk of ground water aquifer contamination due to extensive agricultural activities that needs to be constantly monitored. A total of 218 ground water samples were collected across the Sindh Province and were evaluated for drinking and agricultural purpose subjected to Hydrochemical analysis. The analytical parameters were compared with WHO and Pakistan water quality standards and majority of the samples were found not potable. 62.84% of EC samples, 34.86% TDS, 43% Na ) and Cl -and HCO 3 -exceeds over SO 4 2-indicating saline water and carbonate weathering as the source of solutes in Sindh groundwater. Suitability of groundwater for drinking and agricultural purpose indicates that majority of the samples were very far from drinking water standards while few samples were considered unsuitable for agricultural purpose especially in the lower southern Sindh( Thatta, Badin and Tharparker). Proper drainage
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