Assessment of groundwater quality in parts of Bikaner District, Rajasthan

Abstract

Rajasthan's Bikaner District, part of the Thar Desert, is experiencing problems with falling groundwater levels, high salinity, fluoride and nitrate concentrations. Therefore, groundwater quality studies are underway to determine the suitability of groundwater for drinking purposes in the Bikaner district. Quality analysis is performed using parameters such as Conductivity (EC), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), pH, Calcium, Potassium, Sodium, Nitrate, Sulfate, Chloride, Fluoride, magnesium, total hardness (TH) and Bicarbonate. Conductivity, TDS and TH increases were observed in the post-monsoon period. No such changes were observed in the sulphate, nitrate and fluoride concentrations after the rains. Most of the study areas have high salinity and are therefore unsuitable for consumption. However, all other chemical parameters are within the maximum allowable limits according to the BIS standard. Unconventional energy use desalination of groundwater is proposed to provide sustainable drinking water. Various industrial and mining man-made recharge structures (Pits with Borehole Technique) near the villages, resulting in higher groundwater levels and improved quality in neighboring areas. Success stories can be replicated in similar geographic environments. Large-scale artificial rainwater harvesting/storage/replenishment of potential aquifers is another management alternative, which can improve the chemical quality of groundwater.