Evaluation of Environmental Hydrogeological Characteristics and Their Impact on Transportation Routes in The Western Part of Najaf Governorate

This study was carried out in the desert of Al-Najaf province, where water samples were taken from four wells: the first in the Alrohban, the second the Alrihema region, the third in the area separating the Najaf and Karbala governorates (Al-Rijiba), and the last well from the palm production station on the Karbala Road. Some chemical analyzes were conducted of the water taken from these wells that including estimating the electrical conductivity(EC), pH,Total Disolve Salts (TDS), the concentrations of the elements calcium(Ca), magnesium(Mg) phosphorous(p), Sodium (Na) , chlor (Cl) ,potassium K and sulpates ( SO4) of the well water. The highest pH in well water was in the Najaf desert that reach 7.78 and the lowest in alrigiba water of 7.32, while the same wells gave the highest electrical conductivity7.80 ds.M-1and the lowest EC in date palm water of 3.65 ds.M-1 , the highest percentage of total dissolved salts was at the Alrihema site which reached 4125 mg.L-1 and the lowest in date palm water water of 2120 mg.L-1 ,The concentrations of elements showed a significant superiority in the above locations that were ,125 mmole.L-1,78 mmole.L-1and 15.2 mg.kg-1 420 ppm , 610ppm , 25ppm and 1108 ppm respectively. The hydrogeological characteristics and quality of groundwater have significantly impacted transportation routes in Najaf Governorate in several ways, including: Erosion: High levels of dissolved salts in the water have caused erosion of roads and infrastructure, leading to a gradual deterioration in the quality of the roads over time. Landslides: Changes in groundwater levels have led to soil instability, causing landslides that have impacted the roads. Thermal Expansion: Fluctuations in groundwater levels can cause roads to undergo thermal expansion and contraction, resulting in cracks and deformations in the roads. Material Quality: Building new roads or maintaining existing ones may require the use of materials that are resistant to saline or alkaline water to prevent deterioration. Agricultural Impact: High-quality water can be used to irrigate agricultural lands adjacent to the roads, contributing to soil stability and preventing sand accumulation on the roads.