Abstract:
A water quality index (WQI) numerically summarizes the information from multiple water quality parameters into a
single value that is understandable and usable by the public. This information can be used to assess spatial and
temporal variations in overall water quality. However, these indices are time and region specific and may be
influenced by local factors. Muzaffarnagar and Shamli districts of Uttar Pradesh are situated in Ganga-Yamuna doab
of fertile alluvium of Indo-gangetic basin where the demands for surface water and groundwater are growing with
rapid increase in agricultural and industrial activities. In the present study, water quality index is worked out to
assess the spatial variation of groundwater quality status for future planning and management of Muzaffarnagar and
Shamli districts using WQI. Data of 104 groundwater samples covering the whole districts have been used. The
Water Quality Index has been computed using five parameters viz., pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Total Hardness,
Chloride and Sulphate. The WQI results show that the overall water quality class is ‘good’ and water is acceptable
for domestic use.
