ORIGINAL RESEARCH
Evaluation of Water Quality for Drinking
and Agricultural Suitability in the Lower Indus
Plain in Sindh Province, Pakistan
Asfandyar Shahab1, Qi Shihua1, Audil Rashid2, Faizan Ul Hasan3,
Muhammad Tayyab Sohail4
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1School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences,
Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, People’s Republic of China
2Department of Environmental Sciences, PMAS Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi Pakistan
3Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR), Islamabad, Pakistan
4School of Public Administration, China University of Geosciences,
Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, P. R. China
Submission date: 2016-04-13
Final revision date: 2016-06-19
Acceptance date: 2016-06-20
Publication date: 2016-11-24
Pol. J. Environ. Stud. 2016;25(6):2563-2574
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ABSTRACT
Indus Basin represents a conjunctive system for ground and surface water use. From it, originates
the world’s largest irrigation system underlain a deep alluvium and well transmissive aquifer resulting in
higher water table. At present, this area is at risk of ground water aquifer contamination due to extensive
agricultural activities that needs to be constantly monitored. A total of 218 ground water samples were
collected across the Sindh Province and were evaluated for drinking and agricultural purpose subjected to
Hydrochemical analysis. The analytical parameters were compared with WHO and Pakistan water quality
standards and majority of the samples were found not potable. 62.84% of EC samples, 34.86% TDS, 43%
Na+, 17.88% Cl–, 26.60% SO42-, , 39.44% HCO3–, 41.7% turbidity and 35.32% hardness in the samples were
found to exceed the WHO standard limit of drinking water. Interpolation technique was used though Arc.
GIS to determine the spatial distribution of major ground water quality parameters. Highest concentration
was observed mostly at Lower Sindh (Thatta, Badin) where sea water intrusion takes place, Tharparker
and central Sindh. Principal Component Analysis and correlation analysis confirms positive association
of As with Fe which could be the possible cause of As mobilization in Sindh ground water. The hydrogeochemical
facies indicates that alkali (Na+) exceeds over alkaline earth metals (Ca2+, Mg2+) and Cl– and
HCO3– exceeds over SO42- indicating saline water and carbonate weathering as the source of solutes in Sindh
groundwater. Suitability of groundwater for drinking and agricultural purpose indicates that majority of the
samples were very far from drinking water standards while few samples were considered unsuitable for
agricultural purpose especially in the lower southern Sindh( Thatta, Badin and Tharparker). Proper drainage
practices especially in the irrigated area and lower Sindh Province are recommended in order to reduce the
water level and avoid sea water intrusion for better water quality.