Groundwater quality assessment in proximity to solid waste dumpsite at Uruli Devachi in Pune, Maharashtra

Abstract

Abstract Industrialization and population growth lead to changes in the quantity as well as composition of the solid waste produced in a city. This further leads to environmental pollution and deterioration of soil as well as groundwater quality in many cities. Improper management of solid waste results in several challenges for the city inhabitants, predominantly those living around these solid waste dumpsites. If not handled properly, these dumpsites have the potential of polluting various air, water sources, land, and even vegetation. The current study was carried out for Uruli-Devachi dumpsite at Pune, Maharashtra with an objective to evaluate the groundwater quality and to confirm whether it is suitable for drinking. Samples of groundwater were taken from distinct locations including two bore and seven open wells for conditions before and after the monsoon. To ascertain the groundwater suitability for drinking, the physico-chemical characteristics were compared with Indian Standards. The chemical characteristics showed presence of excess chloride, BOD, TSS, zinc, and chromium, which can be attributed to landfill leachate joining the groundwater. The study shows that the borewells around the dumpsite are critically polluted and cause of pollution being leachate coming from the dumpsite. The periodic addition of the solid waste in the dumpsite shall further lead to deterioration of the groundwater quality in the surrounding areas; therefore, suitable steps are necessary to avert further aggravation of the problem. HIGHLIGHTS Solid waste disposal causes various environmental and health problems in nearby areas. Determination of physico-chemical characteristics of water is crucial in assessing water suitability. Representative samples were analysed for different physical and chemical parameters. Evaluation of ground water quality revealed ground water quality in the study area. Study indicates an imperative requisite solid waste handling.