EVALUATION OF GROUNDWATER AND SURFACE WATER QUALITY IN MAHENDERGARH: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF WATER QUALITY PARAMETERS

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive evaluation of groundwater and surface water quality in Mahendergarh district, located in the semi-arid region of Haryana, India. The research aims to compare key physicochemical parameters of groundwater and surface water sources to assess their suitability for drinking and agricultural purposes. Water samples were collected from multiple locations and analyzed for parameters including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), hardness, chloride, nitrate, fluoride, and heavy metals such as iron and arsenic. The results reveal significant spatial variability in water quality, with groundwater showing elevated levels of TDS and nitrates in several areas, likely due to agricultural runoff and geogenic factors. Surface water, although less mineralized, exhibited seasonal fluctuations influenced by rainfall and anthropogenic activities. The findings underscore the need for integrated water resource managementstrategies and regular monitoring to ensure safe water supply and environmental sustainability in Mahendergarh. This comparative analysis provides valuable insights for policymakers and environmental agencies engaged in water quality management.