CS(AR)-29/99-2000 : Groundwater quality studies in Belgaum district

Abstract

The ground water quality deterioration is a serious problem in many parts of Belgaum district due to various reasons such as urbanisation, industrial growth and induction of fertilisers and insecticides and also due to anthropogenic activities. Most individuals and an increasing number of communities whose well water is found to be contaminated are abandoning the use of the affected well and turning to an alternative water supply. If more and more wells are abandoned, the stress on other means of water supply will increase to an intolerable level. Therefore, some alternative means of dealing with the problem of encroaching ground water pollution are needed. In this regard, the foremost part is evaluation of water quality parameters which will throw a light on existing water quality conditions in the district.

In the present report, the results of the chemical analysis of ground water sample from both open and bore wells of Belgaum district have been presented. The study broadly covers the following aspects, (i) Groundwater quality evaluation of Belgaum district, (ii) identification of groundwater quality problems in various parts of the district, (iii) classification of groundwaters, and (iv) Application of DRASTIC model for assessing the vulnerability to groundwater pollution.