The Impact of Geology of Recharge Areas on Groundwater Quality: A Case Study of Zhob River Basin, Pakistan

摘要: Groundwater is a major source of water supply for domestic and irrigation uses in semiarid, remote but rapidly developing Kilasaifullah district part Zhob River Basin, located at Pakistan–Afghanistan Border. among few rivers perennial nature Balochistan, which flows from WSW to ENE falls Gomal River, tributary Indus River. Keeping view the important geopolitical position rapid development region, this study primarily focused on groundwater chemistry contamination sources as well agriculture development. Water samples open tube wells are analyzed calculated electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity, pH, K+, Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, HCO, Cl−, NO, SO, PO, sodium percent (Na%), adsorption ratio (SAR), Kelly's index (KI), heavy metals (Fe, Cu, Cr, Zn, Pb, Mn). On basis chemical constituents two zones within area identified possible causes contaminants pointed out. Two recharge areas were responsible different results groundwater, e.g., zone A was recharged NNW saline geological formations (Nisai, Khojak, Multana, Bostan formations, Muslim Bagh ophiolites), concentrated with high chloride. other hand Zone B sourced SSW carbonate rich rocks (Alozai, Loralai, Parh ophiolites). The classified C2–S1, C3–S1, C3–S2, C4–S2 EC SAR values indicate that most both can be used safely except plotted C3–S2 categories could dangerous soil crops. good permissible limits some excellent belong doubtful category based percent. unsuitable use due higher KI (more than one) KI. In general, suitable care should taken during selection crops sensitive alkalinity or hazards particularly A.