The Biobrio 12(3&4), 2025

Groundwater quality assessment using water quality indices: a case study of bore wells in Ratu Block, Ranchi

Manoj Kumar Gupta & Ajay Kumar Chaudhary

ABSTRACT:

Groundwater is a vital resource for drinking, irrigation, and industrial use. However, rapid industrial growth and waste discharge have raised serious concerns about groundwater pollution. This study evaluates the groundwater quality of bore wells in Ratu Block, Ranchi, using Water Quality Indices (WQIs). Water samples were collected from 18 bore wells across 10 villages and analyzed for key physico-chemical parameters, including pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), total alkalinity, and total hardness. The Indian Standard Drinking Water Specification (IS 10500: 2012) was used to assess water quality. The results indicate that most bore wells have WQI values ranging from 120 to 250, with some exceeding 300, categorizing them as "Poor" to "Unsuitable for Drinking." Recommended measures such as disinfection and hardness removal treatments are necessary. Regular groundwater monitoring and treatment are recommended to ensure safe drinking water

Keywords:    

Bore wells, Groundwater, Water Quality Indices, pH, total dissolved solids, total alkalinity.

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