Hydrochemistry and weathering process influencing surface water around Jawalamukhi, Himachal Himalaya, India

Changing scenario of water resources is one of the major issues of concern at present. This study aims to determine hydrochemistry and weathering process influencing the surface water along with anthropogenic activities around the Jawalamukhi, Himachal Pradesh, India. The water samples collected during the pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon revealed both Na+ and Ca2+ as dominant ions throughout. Similarly, HCO3– and Cl– were found to be dominant during pre- and post-monsoon, while HCO3– and CO3²– during monsoon. Comparison of TDS versus (Na⁺+K⁺)/(Na⁺+K⁺+Ca2+) and Cl–/(Cl⁻+HCO3⁻) confirmed that the hydrochemistry of surface water is influenced by rock weathering to a major extent. The scatter plots of Ca2++Mg2+, Na⁺+K⁺ and total cations showed weathering of carbonate rocks as a leading source of major ions in surface water, including silicate weathering and anthropogenic activities. The LULC map revealed that maximum sites are majorly influenced by vegetation cover, built-up and crop land, etc. The water quality index (WQI) indicated good, excellent and poor water quality pertaining to domestic purposes. However, surface water quality is observed suitable and doubtful for irrigation during all seasons. Essential mitigation measures need to be carried out to save surface water from contamination. The water may be treated before domestic uses to avoid civilians’ health implications.