Geospatial Assessment of Groundwater Quality Using Water Quality Index (WQI) in Bahawalpur (Pakistan)

Abstract

This study assessed groundwater quality in Bahawalpur, Pakistan, using the CCME-WQI method. Geographic Information System (GIS) tools were utilised to facilitate a safe drinking water evaluation. The groundwater in the city was sampled and analysed for ten physicochemical properties, including pH, total hardness (TH), total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), turbidity (NTU), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), potassium (K), sodium (Na) and Lead (Pb). Seventeen groundwater samples were collected from various locations throughout the city. Analysis showed that groundwater pH levels were within permissible drinking limits, although slightly elevated. However, most samples exceeded acceptable hardness and TDS levels, requiring treatment before use. According to the findings of the CCME-WQI, only 6% of the evaluated regions had exceptional or high water quality, while 82% of the sites had poor water quality. Hamaitian Basti recorded the poorest groundwater quality index. According to the results of the spatial mapping, it was determined that the water quality in the southern and eastern portions of the city was lower. In comparison, the water quality in the northern and western portions of the city was higher. The average WQI of 41 shows inferior groundwater quality in Bahawalpur. Immediate treatment is necessary to ensure safe drinking water for residents.