Groundwater–Surface Water Interactions and Pollution Assessment Using Hydrochemistry and Environmental Isotopes δ18O, δ2H, and 3H in Puebla Metropolitan Area, Mexico

Abstract

The Puebla Metropolitan Area, one of the most industrialized regions in Mexico, shows severe contamination of both surface and groundwater. In this study a multi-tracer approach combining hydrochemistry with environmental isotopes (δ2H, δ18O, 3H) was applied to evaluate groundwater–surface water (GW–SW) interactions and their role in water quality degradation. Elevated concentrations of aluminum, iron, zinc, and lead were detected in the Alseseca and Atoyac Rivers, exceeding national standards, while arsenic, manganese, and lead in groundwater surpassed Mexican and WHO drinking water limits. The main sources of contamination include volcanic inputs from Popocatepetl activity (e.g., arsenic) and untreated discharges from industrial parks (e.g., lead), which together introduce significant loads of Potentially Toxic Elements (PTEs) into surface and groundwater. Isotopic analysis identified three sources for aquifer recharge: (1) recharge from high-altitude meteoric water, (2) mixed GW–SW water recharged at intermediate elevations with heavy metal presence, and (3) recharge from lower altitudes (evaporate water). Tritium confirmed both modern and old recharge, while isotope-based mixing models indicated surface water contributions to groundwater ranging from 18% to 72%. These interpretations were derived from the integrated analysis of hydrochemical and isotopic data, allowing the quantification of recharge sources, residence times, and mixing processes. The results demonstrate that hydraulic connectivity, enhanced by fractures and faults, facilitates contaminant transfer from polluted rivers into the aquifer.