An Assessment of Fluoride Levels in Quetta City’s Drinking Water and Its Correlation with Other Water Quality Parameters

In more than 70% of the world, groundwater is the main source of drinking water, but in developing countries, its sustainability is seriously threatened. Quetta is the provincial capital of Balochistan, where drinking water quality poses challenges to public health. This study aims to assess the physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of drinking water with a main focus on about 18 water quality parameters, including electrical conductivity, pH, turbidity, bicarbonate, total dissolved solids (TDS), fluoride, hardness, coliforms, etc. Data was collected from the Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources and the Pakistan Meteorological Department. The findings of the study reveal significant spatial disparities in water quality parameters and with some exceeding the World Health Organization's recommended limits, with notable concerns regarding elevated TDS, fluoride levels, etc., posing higher risks to public health in the study area. Due to a lack of proper water management, secondly, a large number of tube wells have been installed, and overexploitation of water resources from these tube wells has created a water stress situation in the study area. This critical water situation in the study area needs urgent attention for sustainable water management practices. This study will provide practical insights into the critical importance of regular monitoring and the implementation of effective local water management strategies to ensure safe drinking water for the people living in the provincial capital of Balochistan (Quetta).