Hydrogeochemical Evaluation of Groundwater in Parts of Shamal, Northern Qatar

Abstract

Hydrogeochemical analyses of groundwater samples in Shamal area were undertaken to assess the groundwater chemistry of the area and hence determine its suitability for irrigation and other purposes. Thirteen groundwater samples were freshly collected from different functional wells in the area and were analyzed for different physico-chemical parameters.  The analyzed parameters include TDS, EC, major cations and anions. The water quality study shows that EC ranges from 7891.88-20 736.84 μS/cm, TDS values range from 5050.80-13 271.58 mg/l. Analytical study of water samples shows that sodium varies from 1316.38-3432.39 mg/l, calcium varies from 300.81-799.93 mg/l, magnesium varies from 126.66-381.81 mg/l, potassium varies from 74-181.02 mg/l, chloride values range from 2177.75-6058 mg/l, sulphate values range from 743.87-2448.79 mg/l and bicarbonate values range from 23.13-240.3 mg/l. The high concentrations of sodium and chloride ions are indicators of saline water intrusion. The analyses of the hydrogeochemical ratios were also done to highlight the groundwater genesis and origin of mineralization. The water samples were analyzed for suitability for irrigation using various classification criteria and mathematical formula. The results from analysis of KR, SAR, SSP, PS, EC and %Na all indicate that the water in the area is unfit for use in irrigation.