An integrated approach for evaluation of groundwater quality in Korba district, Chhattisgarh using Geomatic techniques

Abstract

Aim: The objective of the study was to evaluate and assess present groundwater quality scenario by developing groundwater quality index map for Korba district in Chhattisgarh. Methodology: For the study, well wise water quality data was collected for 719 villages over the period of six years from 2009 to 2015 .The relative weights, quality rating scale and accordingly weighted values were calculated to estimate the overall groundwater quality index (GQI) and calculation of GQI was carried out for 10 parameters such as pH, turbidity, total hardness, chloride, calcium, nitrate, iron, magnesium, sulphate and fluoride. GQI map was developed by creating spatial reference to point locations for which the quality of groundwater is known using GIS software. Results: The concentration of the parameters in the study area was found in the following order: Turbidity > Iron > pH > Fluoride > Nitrate > Magnesium > Calcium > Chloride > Total Hardness > Sulphate. Groundwater quality index map show decrease in water quality from north to east in the study area. According to the classification of GQI, 8.86% of water sampling locations were found having GQI less than100 means bearing good quality water and 91.14% having GQI greater than100 indicating non potable water. Interpretation: Application of GQI in the present work communicates comparative information on groundwater quality of Korba district. Presence of low water quality in the study area may be attributed due to mining activities and overexploitation of groundwater. Analysis suggests that groundwater in the study area needs specific treatment before supply to the public as potable water.