In this study, we examined the water quality in Bathinda District, Punjab, India, focusing on its impact on human health and the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 6: Clean Water and Sanitation. Water samples of the last two years i.e. 2023–2024 were analyzed for physicochemical properties and heavy metal concentration, revealing alarming levels of contaminants. The results indicate that the water quality in this region in some parameters is alarming as approaching the acceptable limits for Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Calcium (90 mg/l), Magnesium (48 mg/l), Fluoride (1.05 mg/l), and Uranium (42.09 ± 10.00 µg/l). Contaminated or polluted water, when consumed directly or indirectly like when used to irrigate crops and vegetables, poses serious health risks such as cancer, neurological diseases, gastrointestinal issues, and renal damage. This highlights the need for sustainable water management techniques in Punjab, India’s agricultural region, which was once known as the “food bowl” as contaminated water negatively impacts human health directly and indirectly. In order to ensure clean water for agricultural practice and human intake, the study recommends utilizing sustainable water management techniques, such as periodic monitoring and water treatment technologies. This is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 6 and SDG 3 (excellent health and well-being). Thus, the SDG 6 is fulfilled by this work. The finding of this work stresses the importance of providing clean water for agricultural usage and human consumption.