Physico-Chemical Analysis of Selected Potable Water in Parts of Mamit District, Mizoram

Abstract

In the present study, physico-chemical characteristics of potable water from the selected area in the central part of Mamit district, Mizoram were analysed to obtain the quality level for domestic uses. During the non-monsoon period, the residents in the selected area mainly depend on perennial spring (Tuikhur), hand pump, and rainwater harvesting without any treatment for drinking and other domestic purposes. A total of 17 potable water samples were collected from 6 different stations in the study area. The water samples were analysed for their physico-chemical characteristics, viz. pH, Turbidity, EC, Total Dissolve Solids, Total Hardness, Total Alkalinity, chloride, fluoride, nitrate, and sulphate. On comparing the results against water quality standards and standard values recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Bureau of Indian Standard (BIS), it is found that most of the water samples are well within the permissible limit and suitable for drinking and domestic purposes. Analysis of heavy metals such as Iron, Zinc, Cadmium, Magnesium, Copper, Lead, Potassium, Chromium, Manganese, Calcium, Arsenic, and Sodium was also carried out by using Microwave Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (MPAES). The concentrations of heavy metals were also found within the acceptable limits as per WHO and BIS guidelines.