Physico-chemical characteristics of groundwater at Churu tehsil, Rajasthan, India.

Groundwater samples were collected from different locations in Churu tehsil, Rajasthan (India) for their physico-chemical studies. Laboratory tests were performed for analysis of samples for total dissolved solids, electrical conductivity and major ions, e.g. calcium, magnesium, nitrate, fluoride, sodium and potassium. This paper highlights the analytical results for main ions contributing towards total dissolved solids. On comparing the results against drinking water quality standards laid by Indian Council of Medical Research (I.C.M.R.), it is found that most of the water samples are non potable for human beings due to high concentration of one parameter or the other. Most of the samples have total dissolved solids values much higher than the maximum permissible level stipulated by I.C.M.R., which is 1500 ppm. The high values of these parameters may have health implications and therefore these need attention.