Suitability of the Drinking Qualities of Ground and Surface Water Sources in Bhopal City for Futuristic Needs: A Comparative Study

Water pressure is increasing continuously with environmental change, pollution, and an increasing population. This work examines the suitability of the water potability of surface and groundwater sources in Bhopal City presently. The seasonal changes have been seen in physicochemical parameters on a monthly basis for six months. The potability of the water has also been checked for water sources that have not been used for drinking purposes. Sixteen physicochemical properties were analyzed of water that was collected from the tube wells and reservoirs located in Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh. Nine water samples were tested according to APHA’s (American Public health Association) 23rd edition on selected parameters. The findings were subjected to comparative study and mathematical modeling to draw conclusions. The high iron (Fe) content of three groundwater sites, viz, Kolua Khurd (3.01 mg/l), Chhawani Pathar (3.08 mg/l) and Kerwa (2.20 mg/l) exceeded the permissible limit (1.0 mg/l) given by World Health Organization (WHO). The COD value (55.75 mg/l) for Upper Lake indicated contamination of principle drinking water source due to highly oxidizable pollutants from the city. The physicochemical data was also checked for Gibbs and Piper plot and it was inferred that both water sources belong to rock dominance with Mg(HCO3)2 hydrochemical facies. The other parameters assured safe potability of water. The results showed that the water sources in Bhopal are still healthy for drinking purposes. They are safe to use and may be stored for future needs. The dams that have been used for fulfilling irrigation needs can also be considered for household requirements.