Groundwater Quality Assessment: A Case Study in Perungalathur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

Introduction: Groundwater is primary source of water for billions of people around the world. Only a miniscule percentage of freshwater is available on Earth for human utilisation. Groundwater is generally high-quality freshwater that is safe for drinking. However, exploitation of natural resources and generation of more wastes in the environment have led to the contamination of groundwater.

Objectives: This study was primarily carried out to find out the current status of groundwater quality, pollutants, contaminants and threats in and around Perungalathur.

Methods: The groundwater samples were collected from wells or borewells randomly from each ward of Perungalathur. The analysis of important physical and chemical properties revealed the quality of water. These values were compared with the standards of drinking water framed by Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS 10500: 2012).

Results: All water samples were found to align with the drinking water standards or lesser than the drinking water standards within the permissible limit of BIS. The formulation of a water quality index also reveals the same.

Conclusions: The water in the area of Perungalathur can be used for drinking without any further considerations. This justifies that the water is healthier for the human consumption in Perungalathur area.