Assessing Hydrogeochemical Dynamics And Seasonal Variations Of Groundwater Quality In The Kovilpatti Region: Implications For Sustainable Water Management And Irrigation Practices

Abstract

This study examines groundwater quality in the Kovilpatti region, Tamil Nadu, during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons of 2023 using spatial analysis and hydrogeochemical plots. Key water quality parameters, including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), and concentrations of sodium (Na), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), chloride (Cl), sulfate (SO₄²⁻), and bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻), were analyzed. The pre-monsoon season revealed elevated levels of TDS, Mg, Ca, and Cl, often exceeding WHO standards, suggesting potential health risks and the influence of prolonged rock water interactions and evaporation processes. Post-monsoon samples showed improvement due to rainwater recharge, although TDS and Mg levels remained high. Hydrogeochemical plots, including Piper and Gibbs diagrams, indicate a dominance of alkaline earth metals (Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺) and strong acids (Cl⁻ and SO₄²⁻) in both seasons. The Wilcox diagram highlights potential risks for agricultural use due to high salinity and sodium content. Water quality indices reveal significant seasonal variations, with pre-monsoon samples showing higher Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR) and Residual Sodium Carbonate (RSC) values, posing risks to soil structure and permeability. Post-monsoon conditions reflect a reduction in these risks, indicating an overall improvement in water quality. This study underscores the need for continuous groundwater monitoring and sustainable water management practices in the Kovilpatti region to mitigate contamination risks and ensure safe drinking water, while also supporting sustainable agricultural practices.