Evaluation of Ground Drinking Water Sources of Haridwar Using Heavy Metal Pollution Index

Abstract

Advance statistical technique as heavy metal pollution index (HPI) was used for assessment of suitability of 17 ground water sources of district Haridwar for drinking purpose. Water samples were analyzed for Cu, Mn, Pb, Zn, Cr and Fe as water quality parameters using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) as per BIS and APHA standards. Results showed that the concentration of all the analyzed heavy metals were found in all the selected ground drinking water sources below their standard limit during the study, except one i.e. only lead was found (0.011 mg/L) more than its standard limit (0.01 mg/L) at H13 during PRM 2014. Suitability of studied drinking water sources have also been evaluated on the rating scale along with determination of seasonal and spatial variations. Results may attribute that HPI of the water sources were generally below its critical limit and studied water sources were safe for human consumption with respect to analyzed heavy metals. The results of the present research work provide significant information for water resources management, which helps to better meet the future challenges.