Natural and Anthropogenic Sources of Groundwater Salinization in Parts of Karachi, Pakistan

Abstract

This study is aimed to evaluate the groundwater quality of Gulshan-e-Iqbal and Liaquatabad towns in Karachi. Thirty (n=30) groundwater samples were randomly collected from different locations by electrically pumped wells at various depths (14-91m). All the water samples were analyzed to determine their suitability for drinking purpose based on various physicochemical parameters. Data reveal that high concentration of TDS and hardness have deteriorated the groundwater quality of study area. The main phenomenon responsible for groundwater pollution is the seawater intrusion due to the proximity of study area to the Arabian sea. Large scale unplanned urbanization, poor waste management and other anthropogenic activities have also triggered the deterioration of groundwater quality. Study showed that local geology plays vital role in the distribution of major cations and anions. Data suggested that ground water of this study area is highly contaminated by seawater intrusion and considered not fit for drinking purpose.