Theme-II-5-Simulation of persistence of pesticide residues in groundwater of Ludhiana and Muktsar district, Punjab.

Abstract

Groundwater quality analyses carried out for pesticide residues in Ludhiana and Muktsar districts of Punjab have shown the persistence of Organo-Chlorine pesticides of BHC (Lindane), Heptachlor, Heptachlor Epoxide, Endosulfan I, 4,4 - DDT, Methoxychlor and Organo-Phosphorous pesticides of Methyl Parathion, Dimethoate and Malathion. It has been found that in general persistence of organo-chlorine pesticide residues in groundwater of Muktsar district is 6-8 times higher than Ludhiana district during July 2003. The use of pesticides depends on corps grown in the area. The cotton crop grown over large areas in Muktsar district is contributing more pesticide residues to the groundwater as compared with predominantly paddy grown areas of Ludhiana district. Further, shallow water table condition in the Muktsar district adds to the problem as pesticides leach fast to the shallow water table when compared with the deep water table condition in Ludhiana district. Compared to cotton crop, paddy crop requires more irrigation water and thereby more dilution of pesticide residues may take place during leaching to the groundwater table. Persistence of a typical organo-chlorine pesticide residue has been illustrated through PESTAN Model for the prevailing groundwater conditions in Muktsar and Ludhiana districts. Suggested regular monitoring of pesticide residues to provide secured potable water supply to the people in these districts.