Hydrogeochemical Assessment of Groundwater of Taluka Chachro, Thar Parker, district, Sindh, Pakistan

Abstract

The study was conducted to evaluate the hydrogeochemistry of groundwater. Twenty-six groundwatersamples were analysed for the groundwater quality of Chachro Taluka. The EC and TDS contents in most of the watersamples were above WHO (2011) recommended limits. Almost all water samples collected from dugwells located inthe study area have elevated concentrations of Na and Cl exceeding the WHO guidelines. Results of Ca, and Mg showthat 92% and 96% of groundwater samples were within the prescribed limit respectively. Whereas, HCO3, SO4, andNO3 contnets of 88%, 77%, and 69% respectively are also above the guidelines. Statistical results revealed adominating trend among the cations of Na+>Ca+2>Mg+2>K+ and anions occur in the order of abundance, as Cl->HCO3 ->SO4 -2>NO3, respectively. The water quality index (WQI) shows that 15% groundwater samples belong to poorcategory, and 35% water samples were found belonging to very poor category.While, remaining 50% wells were foundunsuitable for drinking purpose.