Evaluation of groundwater chemistry and usability in Singrauli, Madhya Pradesh, India

This study aimed to identify the key factors influencing hydrochemistry and evaluate the water quality for human consumption in the Singrauli District. This study uses a multi-metric approach by integrating multivariate statistical techniques and various water suitability indices to delineate the hydrogeochemical characteristics of groundwater in the region. Groundwater samples (n = 177) were collected across three sampling seasons during 2021-22 and were analysed for 18 water quality parameters by following the standard guideline of the American Public Health Association manual. The observed concentration (mg/l) for major ions were in the range of: Ca2+ (9.67–122), Na+ (9.18–82.51), Mg2+ (2.36–18.48), K+ (0.31–5.98), HCO3− (37.78-298.01), Cl− (9.56-133.34), SO42− (3.10-122.24), NO3− (6.74–44.96), F− (0.07–1.20) and PO43 (0.02–0.25) in the study area. ANOVA results showed significant seasonal variations (p < 0.05) for temperature, dissolved oxygen, alkalinity, Na+, Mg2+, K+, HCO3−, and PO43− in study area. Gibbs and Piper plots revealed that carbonate weathering and ion exchange mechanisms significantly influenced the major ion composition. Factor analysis highlighted the impact of anthropogenic sources on groundwater chemistry. The Water Quality Index value ranged from 18 to 225, showing water quality from excellent to unfit for drinking. Agriculture suitability indices value suggested the suitability of groundwater for irrigation at most of the sampling sites (Sodium Adsorption Ratio ≈ 76%, Magnesium Hazard ≈ 97% and Permeability Index ≈ 95%). The Langelier Saturation Index value showed a problem of corrosion for 82% of the sampling sites, and the Puckorius Scaling Index showed the ability of scale formation for 86% of the sampling sites.