Groundwater Quality Assessment Using Hydrochemical Indicators and Statistical Analysis in Semi-Arid Central India

Abstract The study evaluates groundwater quality for household consumption and farming purposes, considering natural and human influences on hydrochemistry. Fifteen samples were analysed for their chemical characteristics, irrigation indices, and facies, revealing predominantly slightly alkaline water, ranging from fresh to moderately fresh. Nitrate concentrations ranged between 1.0 and 176 mg/L, with 53.3% of the samples exceeding the threshold of BIS, reflecting significant agricultural and anthropogenic impacts. 46% of the samples were identified as poor, while 20% were identified as unfit for drinking purposes according to the Water Quality Index assessment. Irrigation assessment showed TDS and EC within acceptable limits, with SAR values (0.2-1.8) indicating excellent quality. Based on SAR vs EC plots, 40% samples fell in C2S1 and 60% in C3S1, requiring careful use in poorly drained soils. PCA and HCA indicated spatial variability driven by natural (rock dissolution, ion exchange) and anthropogenic inputs. Most samples (66.6%) belonged to Mg-HCO₃ facies. Gibbs plots showed rock weathering–evaporation dominance, while geochemical modelling indicated near-equilibrium carbonate minerals. PHREEQC modelling reveals near-equilibrium saturation of carbonate minerals (calcite, aragonite, dolomite), confirming effective buffering of pH and alkalinity, while evaporite minerals remain undersaturated. ​