Geo-Chemical Characterization of Groundwater

Rashid. H.A, BSc in Agrotechnology (Hon's), PGDBA, Training & Media Communication Officer, SAFE (Social Activities For Environment).

Ground water is the most important source of fresh water supply for drinking and domestic purposes (97%) in Bangladesh. This study was conducted on geochemical characterization of groundwater in Jessore Municipality area which is situated in the southwestern part of Bangladesh and central part of Jessore District with an area of 24.6 sq. km. The main objectives of this study were to evaluate the major sources of water chemistry and its suitability for portable and domestic needs. To complete this research work, 15 sample were collected from 9 different ward located in the Jessore Municipality area and analyzed to characterize the water geochemically. The analysis reveals that the major chemical composition of ground water is controlled by the rock-water interaction in the aquifer. The chemical constituent of water is mostly Ca2+-Mg2+- HCO3- type and shows temporary hardness of water in Municipality boundary. The major parameters concentrations suggest that water quality of shallow aquifer in Jessore is quite satisfactory and meets the standard guideline value of drinking water of DoE, Bangladesh and WHO.