Analytical Study of the Spatial Distribution of Chemical Properties of Well Water along Darna River, Nashik, India

Abstract

An attempt has been made of the current research paper is to analyse the spatial distribution of chemical properties of well water along the Darna River in the Nashik district. Total 12 samples have been collected from the sites of the wells along the Darna River dated on 12th May 2024. A random purposive sampling method has been applied for the collection of the samples to analysis of the chemical properties of 10 parameters namely: TDS (mg/l), Calcium (mg/l), Fluoride (mg/l), Chloride (mg/l), Iron (mg/l), Total Alkalinity (mg/l), Nitrogen-nitrate (mg/l), pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC) and Total Hardness (mg/l). All collected samples have been analysed using standard water analysis methods in the laboratory. The obtained results of sample analysis have been visualised through different thematic maps. The readings of chemical parameters illustrate the heterogeneous results of the well water along the river Darna. The chemical properties of well water are highly variable, changing along the river's course due to a combination of natural processes and human activities. The water quality has been influenced by agricultural runoff, which is most promoting the pollution due to intensive use of agrochemicals and fertilizers, especially in rice-field areas. This research provides a valuable baseline for the agriculture department for setting the ideal guidelines of the future perspective for the farmers as well as the municipal councils for sustaining the drinking water quality.