Impact of Open Dumping Site on Groundwater Quality in Silchar City, Assam, India

Abstract

Solid waste management is a burning issue that requires special attention and consideration in developing countries. In most cities and towns, it has become a public health concern due to uncontrolled dumping that has caused degradation of the natural environment. Therefore, the present study assessed the impact of dump yards on the surrounding environment by conducting physicochemical and biological analysis of groundwater and leachate samples and comparing it with control sites located at Silchar town of Assam, India. The result demonstrated that a large number of organic materials and inorganic salt leached to the surrounding environment by the decomposition of waste at open dumping site which significantly pollutes the groundwater sources of nearby areas. The sample site S5 recorded the highest value of WQI (100.78). Contamination of Total Coliform and E. Coli bacteria were recorded in the range of 96–2116 CFU/100 ml and 0–2466 CFU/100 ml respectively in sample sites. However, in control sites, coliform bacteria were found in the range of 8–43 CFU/100 ml and E. coli bacteria was found to be absent in all the control sites. The mean concentrations of Pb (8.94 mg L⁻¹), Mn (19.12 mg L⁻¹) and Ni (6.38 mg L⁻¹) in the dump yards were found above the maximum permissible limit of EPA US, 1986; however, the concentrations of Cu (4.05 mg L⁻¹) and Cd (0.45 mg L⁻¹) were within the permissible limit. Hence, there is a need for proper scientific planning and management of waste disposal for the protection of our surrounding environment.