| Abstract Submission No. | ABS-3.1-0119 |
| Title of Abstract | Geochemical Characterization of Iron-Rich Groundwater of Dhemaji District, Assam: Implications for Water Quality and Public Health |
| Authors | Guddeti Sravya Sai*, Chinmoy Rajkonwar |
| Organisation | CSIR-North East Institute of Science and Technology (NEIST) |
| Address | Geo-Science and Technology Division (GSTD), CSIR-North East Institute of Science and Technology, Jorhat, Assam, India Pincode: 785006 E-mail: sravyasai1994@gmail.com |
| Country | India |
| Presentation | Poster |
| Abstract | Groundwater is a vital resource for domestic and agricultural use in Dhemaji district, Assam, yet its quality is often influenced by underlying geochemical processes. This study presents a geochemical assessment of 16 groundwater samples, with a focusing on iron enrichment and its implications for water quality and public health. Samples were analyzed for pH, temperature, total dissolved solids (TDS), major anions (Cl⁻, NO₃⁻, SO₄²⁻), major cations (Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺), total hardness and iron (Fe) content. Results show that pH values range from 6.43 to 7.62 and TDS from 16.3 to 434 mg/L, indicating spatial variability in groundwater mineralization. Iron concentrations exhibited significant variation (0.15-69.36 mg/L), indicating localized geogenic enrichment. Total hardness ranged from 50 to 655 mg/L, classifying soft to very hard water. Elevated iron in several areas poses potential health risks, including concerns from long-term exposure liver and heart damage, diabetes, and joint pain. Spatial patterns suggest that groundwater quality is controlled by both natural geochemistry and local hydrogeological settings as Quaternary alluvial sediments and piedmont deposits. These findings provide a baseline for sustainable water resource management, highlighting the need for targeted monitoring, mitigation strategies and public awareness initiatives. The study underscores the importance of integrating geochemical insights into water quality management and public health planning, especially in iron-affected regions of Assam. |
| Keywords | Groundwater, iron contamination, geochemical assessment, water quality, Dhemaji District, Assam |