PJB-2024-483
MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT OF DRINKING WATER QUALITY AND METAL CONTAMINATION IN DISTRICT SARGODHA, PAKISTAN
aasma iqbal
Abstract
This study analyzes chemical and physical parameters of groundwater in Sargodha district, Pakistan, to determine its suitability for drinking and other uses. Groundwater samples were collected from 34 different places, and critical water quality characteristics such as electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), pH, bicarbonates, chloride, sulphate, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and calcium were determined. The findings show that several samples exceed World Health Organization (WHO) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) limits, particularly for TDS, chloride, sulphate, and salt, indicating widespread contamination from agricultural runoff, industrial waste, and natural sources. Heavy metal examination indicated alarming levels of copper, iron, zinc, manganese, lead, and cadmium, which exceeded allowed limits, indicating severe contamination and posing significant health hazards. Correlation study of the parameters revealed considerable positive relationships between EC, TDS, salt, and sulphate, implying interconnected contamination sources. The study underlines the critical necessity for ongoing groundwater monitoring, source identification, and remediation measures to maintain safe drinking water. Public awareness, regulatory enforcement, and the implementation of effective water treatment technology are all suggested. Future study should concentrate on longitudinal investigations, sophisticated analytical techniques, health impact evaluations, and long-term groundwater contamination mitigation practices.
To Cite this article:
Download
