Hydrochemical Characterization for Groundwater Suitability in a Semi-Arid Area in Sanganer Block, Jaipur District, Rajasthan

Major hydrochemical ionic concentrations in groundwater has been analyzed during dry and wet periods (pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods, respectively) in a semi-arid Sanganer block, Jaipur district, Rajasthan, India. The standard methods were utilized for evaluating its appropriateness for irrigation and drinking uses. Results indicate that groundwater is moderately alkaline and predominantly Ca-Na-HCO3-type. About 38.8, 33.3, 33.3 and 22.2% samples for TDS, Cl−, NO3− and F− concentrations, respectively, have exceeded the guidelines of drinking water standards in the dry period whereas in the wet period, about 44.4, 33.3, 44.4 and 16.6%, respectively. The EC, SAR, RSC, Na%, KR, and MAR parameters indicate that the majority of samples are unsuitable for irrigation. Gibbs diagram suggests that the hydrochemistry is dominatingly impacted by the evaporation mechanism. Chloro-alkaline indices adapted show that the study area mostly belong to the discharge areas. The corrosivity ratio indicates that only PVC pipes could be utilized in an area of 280 km2 for the groundwater based water supply. Further percentage of pollution index shows that groundwater is adversely impacted partially by the anthropogenic activities. But the Na++K+ vs. Cl− plot illustrates that the combined Na+−K+ contribution is from the silicate weathering.