Origin and dynamics of groundwater salinity in the alluvial plains of western Delhi and adjacent territories of Haryana State, India

摘要: Groundwater salinity is a widespread problem and challenge to water resources management. It an increasing concern in the alluvial plains of Delhi neighbouring Haryana state as well risk for agricultural production supply sustainable development. This study aims identify potential sources dissolved salts driving mechanisms ingress shallow aquifer. combines comprehensive review environmental conditions analysis groundwater samples from 25 sampling points. Major ions are analysed describe composition distribution saline dissolution/precipitation dynamics. Density stratification local upconing waters were identified by multilevel monitoring temperature logging. Bromide–chloride ratios hold information on formation waters, nitrate used indicator anthropogenic influences. In addition, stable isotope helps evaporation better understand recharge processes mixing dynamics region. The results lead conclusion that surface influx into poorly drained semiarid basin naturally accumulation soil, sediments groundwater. Human-induced changes conditions, especially implementation traditional canal modern irrigation, have augmented evapotranspiration led waterlogging large areas. water-level fluctuations perturbation natural hydraulic equilibrium favour mobilisation salt stores unsaturated zone deeper aquifer sections. holistic approach this demonstrates importance various provides new insights interference Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.