Nutrient chemistry and seasonal variation in the groundwater quality of a Riverine Island on the west coast of Kerala, India

Abstract

This study attempted to evaluate the groundwater quality, with a special emphasis on nutrients, of a riverine coastal island near Kodungallur, Kerala. Water quality parameters were analyzed in the collected samples over pre- and post-monsoon seasons. A considerable variation in groundwater chemistry was observed in the two periods. During pre-monsoon season, many wells were contaminated with TDS, Cl, Fe, Ca and Mg in certain locations. Whereas, post-monsoon water was relatively fresh, indicating the dilution process as well as aquifer recharge by the monsoon rain and consequent regression of saline water. A higher concentration of Fe was observed in the pre-monsoon season (41%) than in the post-monsoon season (24%). Nitrate and phosphates were analyzed to assess the nutrients and the observed concentration was below their corresponding permissible limits. Results show that overexploitation of the aquifer as well as the decreased flow of the River Periyar during the pre-monsoon period increased the threat from seawater intrusion and groundwater contamination. An interesting groundwater recharge mechanism locally known as backwashing—the diversion of rainwater from rooftops to dug wells—is being practiced in the study area and has been found to be effective in raising water levels and improving water quality.