Characterization and spatial mapping of irrigation water quality and their effects on soil properties in Hathin Block of Palwal district, Haryana

Aim: Characterization and spatial mapping of irrigation water quality of Hathin block, District Palwal, Haryana. Methodology: In order to assess the ground water quality for irrigation suitability and their effect on soil chemical properties, 68 ground water samples were collected, and analyzed for pH, EC, anions (CO32-, HCO3-, Cl-, SO42- and NO3-) and cations (Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+ and K+). Water quality indices [(Sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) and residual sodium carbonate (RSC)] were also computed. Results: The pH and EC of water samples ranged from 6.69-8.35 and 0.77 -11.99 dSm-1 with mean value of 7.48 and 4.21 dSm-1, respectively. The cations and anions followed the order: Na+> Mg2+> Ca2+> K+, and Cl- > SO42-> HCO3−> CO32−>NO3−. RSC and SAR ranged from Nil - 5.40 me l-1 and 5.64 - 19.98 (mmol l-1)1/2, respectively. According to All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) classification, out of total water samples, 17.6 % were found as good, 22.1 % as marginal saline, 4.4 % as saline, 48.5 % as high SAR saline, and 7.4 % as higher alkali. Interpretation: The soluble ions were found higher under higher saline conditions as compared to the locations had good quality irrigation water, which altered soil nutrient status. In order to mitigate the negative impacts of such water, it is advised that brackish or saline groundwater be used to irrigate field crops by diluting it with canal (good quality) water. Key words: Residual sodium carbonate, Soluble ions, Sodium absorption ratio, Water quality indices