Evaluating groundwater quality by examining electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, total hardness, and turbidity using geographic information systems (GIS®): a case study of selected wells in the Taleghan region, Iran

Abstract

Continuous monitoring and control of drinking water sources in cities and villages play a crucial role in ensuring health and hygiene. This research focuses on analyzing the quality and determining the underground water indicators of selected villages in Taleghan city. Water samples from six wells in the Taleghan region were collected and analyzed in the laboratory to check their physicochemical parameters. The zoning maps of the area for selected parameters, including electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), pH, total hardness (TH), turbidity, and water temperature were analyzed using geographic information system (GIS). The water quality at wells in the villages of Navizak, Hashan, Jazan, Fashandak, Khasban, and Hashiran was ranked from best to least. The results indicated that the water hardness level in this area is not favorable, and the turbidity in the Fashandak and Khasban water wells exceeds optimal levels compared to their indices. There is a significant difference between these parameters and the standards, suggesting that corrective measures should be taken to improve the water quality in these wells. The purpose is to identify wells that have poor water quality and provide practical solutions to the country’s water resources management department in order to achieve sustainable water resources or improve water supply for drinking purposes.