DETERMINATION OF GROUND WATER QUALITY IN LONG TERM IRRIGATION ZONE: A STUDY OF BHANDARDARA LEFT BANK CANAL COMMAND AREA

Abstract

Groundwater is an essential resource for drinking and irrigation, particularly in rural areas where surface water is limited. Ensuring the quality of groundwater is crucial for both public health and agricultural productivity. This study assesses the chemical quality of groundwater in the long-term irrigated zone of the Bhandardara Dam Left Bank Canal command area, part of the Ahilyanagar District in Maharashtra, India. The research analyzes key water quality parameters to determine its suitability for drinking and irrigation. Parameters such as pH, calcium carbonate hardness, chemical oxygen demand (COD), alkalinity, nitrites, ammonia, dissolved oxygen (DO), fluoride, chloride, electrical conductivity (EC), and total dissolved solids (TDS) were evaluated for 22 water samples collected across various villages in the region. The findings show that the groundwater generally falls within acceptable limits for drinking water, with most parameters like pH, fluoride, chloride, and TDS meeting the required standards. However, some samples exhibited elevated levels of COD, EC, and hardness, indicating potential concerns for water quality. High levels of COD in certain samples suggest organic contamination, while elevated EC values point to a higher concentration of dissolved salts, which may affect both the taste and safety of the water. The study concludes that while the majority of the groundwater samples are suitable for drinking, certain areas require further attention and possible treatment to ensure safe and sustainable water use.