GIS-Based Evaluation of Surface Water and Groundwater Pollution in the Kapshi Lake Area, Akola District (Maharashtra): Consequences for Water Quality

Abstract

This study examines the surface and groundwater physicochemical characteristics of Kapshi Lake, which is close to Akola, India. Six water samples were taken from bore wells, dug wells, and Kapshi Lake. These samples were analysed for pH, TDS, EC, TH, Ca, Mg, Cl, colour, and temperature. The principal aim is to evaluate the interdependence of surface and groundwater quality and their appropriateness for irrigation and drinking. The results show that the Kapshi Lake's water sources are contaminated to differing degrees, mostly as a result of human activities such as inappropriate waste disposal, industrial discharge, and agricultural runoff. The water quality is also influenced by natural processes like leaching and mineral dissolution. In certain instances, the levels of TDS, EC, and TH in the water samples are higher than allowed limits, suggesting possible health hazards and restrictions for agricultural usage. The chemical makeup of surface water and groundwater samples differs significantly when compared. Higher concentrations of dissolved minerals and salts are often found in groundwater, whereas biological activity, evaporation, and rainfall all have an impact on surface water. Geological formations and hydrological conditions within the watershed also have an impact on the regional distribution of water quality metrics. Public health and sustainable resource management depend on an understanding of the physicochemical characteristics of the surface and groundwater in Kapshi Lake. The study's findings give local communities and governments important information for creating plans that effectively control water quality. Significant differences in the physicochemical characteristics of surface and groundwater in the Kapshi Lake region were found by the analysis. Elevated quantities of important indicators, including pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), nitrates, and hardness, were found at a number of test locations, suggesting possible pollution and declining water quality.