Navigating Groundwater Challenges: A Holistic Assessment of Hazards and Solutions in Jamnagar, Gujarat, India

Abstract

Groundwater is a crucial resource that sustains ecosystems, agriculture, and human livelihoods. However, it faces significant threats from both natural processes and anthropogenic activities. This paper presents a detailed examination of groundwater hazards, with a focus on salinity intrusion, chemical contamination, and overexploitation, specifically in the Jamnagar Area of Gujarat, India. This semi-arid region is characterized by low precipitation and ephemeral rivers, compounded by a complex geological setting that includes Deccan basalt and marine Tertiary and Quaternary sediments, leading to varying groundwater quality.

Employing Geographic Information Systems (GIS), this study maps areas affected by groundwater hazards, revealing significant brackish water zones and toxic element contamination, particularly with lead (Pb) and nickel (Ni), alongside harmful radicals like sulfate (SO₄²⁻), nitrate (NO₃⁻), chloride (Cl⁻), and fluoride. Notably, 181 locations show high fluoride concentrations, and two villages experience critical levels of total dissolved solids (TDS) and fluoride. This research highlights the profound implications of groundwater hazards on water quality, agricultural productivity, and public health, advocating for integrated management strategies to mitigate these challenges effectively.