Hydrogeochemical Analysis and Quality Assessment of Groundwater in Hothpeth and Surrounding Villages, Shahapur Taluka, Yadgir District, Karnataka State, India
1
Department of Geology,
Government Engineering College,
Visvesvaraya Technological University,
Raichur,
Karnataka
India
2
Department of Geology,
Government SKSJTI,
Visvesvaraya Technological University,
Bengaluru,
Karnataka
India
3
Department of Geology,
Maharani’s Science College for Women,
University of Mysore,
Mysore,
Karnataka
India
Corresponding author Email: drlavanyahegde@gmail.com
Copy the following to cite this article:
Natikar R, Hegde L, Hegde A. T. Hydrogeochemical Analysis and Quality Assessment of Groundwater in Hothpeth and Surrounding Villages, Shahapur Taluka, Yadgir District, Karnataka State, India. Curr World Environ 2025;20(2).
Copy the following to cite this URL:
Natikar R, Hegde L, Hegde A. T. Hydrogeochemical Analysis and Quality Assessment of Groundwater in Hothpeth and Surrounding Villages, Shahapur Taluka, Yadgir District, Karnataka State, India. Curr World Environ 2025;20(2).
Citation Manager Publish History
Select type of program for download
Endnote EndNote format (Mac & Win) | |
Reference Manager Ris format (Win only) | |
Procite Ris format (Win only) | |
Medlars Format | |
RefWorks Format RefWorks format (Mac & Win) | |
BibTex Format BibTex format (Mac & Win) |
Article Publishing History
Received: | 2025-01-31 |
---|---|
Accepted: | 2025-05-07 |
Reviewed by: | ![]() ![]() |
Second Review by: |
![]() ![]() |
Final Approval by: | Dr. Gangadhar Andaluri |
Introduction
Water is a vital resource since it possesses several unique qualities. We all use water to prepare, clean, cultivate, drink, and wash; therefore, it's our most valuable endurance resource. The fact that industry requires significantly more water to generate power, make materials, to transport people and goods is one factor contributing to the everyday consumption. Increased demand for water is being caused by urban sprawl, growing populations, and expanding economic activity. As quantities decrease and the quality worsens, surface water and groundwater become over-exploited, which puts many resources in danger.1-3 According to Witek and Jarosiewicz, surface water quality degradation is becoming a major problem in many nations, and resource conservation policies place a high priority on water quality monitoring.4 As a result, the rising nations are working harder to assess the quality of surface waters and rivers.5,6 A survey of literature reveals that very massive work has been made pertaining to surface and subsurface water pollution and related aspects in India and around the world with specific reference to geological conditions of the area. Some important studies are those of Lavanya,7,8 who have discussed geological influences on water quality and how it affects the life of organisms. J.K. Fawell, discussed the impact of drought on groundwater quality.9 Kulandaivel carried out research on the assessment of groundwater resources and the analysis of hydrochemical properties of groundwater in a specific region, which has significant applications.10 Senthilkumar et al., Monitoring and ensuring the safety of potable water supplies,11,12 K Naika et al., studied fluoride pollution in groundwater in Yadgir taluk,13 Vineeth Ajith, studied about comprehensive approach to evaluating the quality of drinking water.14 Despite various studies on groundwater quality in Karnataka, there is a significant lack of localized, detailed investigations in rural pockets like Hothpeth and its surrounding villages. This study attempts to provide current, site-specific physico-chemical parameters and the study provides insights into the geochemical mechanisms governing fluoride distribution in the groundwater of the region. This study is primarily driven by the need to assess groundwater quality, as it represents the main trace of drinking water in rural communities like Hothpeth and neighboring villages in Shahapur Taluka. With increasing reports of water-borne health issues and the region's vulnerability to geogenic contamination, particularly fluoride,13 it becomes essential to understand the hydrogeochemical characteristics influencing groundwater quality. The objectives of this study are to analyze the physico-chemical characteristics of groundwater, map their spatial distribution, and assess the suitability of groundwater for drinking purposes and household use through established water quality indices.
Materials and Methods
Water samples were obtained during the post-monsoon period from various locations, including Hothpeth, Maktapur, Mudabal, Maratagi, Ganwar, Kodamanahalli, and neighboring villages, with the objective of assessing the quality and usability of both surface and groundwater resources. Twenty-two borewell water samples were collected in total and open wells in eight villages located in the northern part of Shahapur Taluka, near Hothpeth. These villages are part of a fluoride-endemic belt and have experienced water quality issues, including several deaths attributed to poor water quality. The water samples were obtained from borewells and open wells equipped with either submersible pumps or, less commonly hand pumps, all of which are actively used for supplying drinking water to the local communities.
Fresh groundwater samples were drawn into pre-cleaned containers after flushing the borewells for 3–5 minutes to remove stagnant water and obtain representative inflow samples. Parameters such as pH, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), and Electrical Conductivity (EC) were measured using the Water Analyzer Model 371. For chemical analysis, Total Hardness (TH), Total Alkalinity (TA), along with calcium and magnesium concentrations, were determined using EDTA titration and other conventional titrimetric methods with a standard titration setup. Magnesium concentrations were specifically calculated using the calculation technique. Fluoride, nitrate, and chloride levels were measured using a spectrophotometer and titration assembly equipment, following the Argento metric, Alizarin, and phenol sulphonic acid methods, respectively. All methods were applied and validated at the Agricultural University's research center in Bhemarayana Gudi (B Gudi), Shahapur Taluka, Yadgir District.
![]() | Figure 1: Location map.
|
The study area is located in the Yadgir district of Karnataka, India, to the north of Shahapur. The study focuses on an area of approximately 75 km², predominantly within Shahapur Taluk, and is bordered by the Bhima and Krishna rivers (Figure 1). The point where these two rivers meet, referred to as 'Sangam,' it is located in the southeastern region of the study area. The research region, covered by toposheet numbers E43W13 and E43W14, features a maximum elevation of approximately 580 meters above mean sea level (MSL) in the northern part and a minimum elevation of 340 meters MSL in the southeast.
Between 2001 and 2010, the district recorded an average yearly rainfall of 699 mm, whereas in 2021, the actual rainfall dropped to 633 mm. Over 77% of the annual rainfall in the region generally takes place during the Southwest monsoon period, which lasts from June to September. The coldest month in the region is December, with average high and low temperatures of approximately 25°C and 15°C, respectively. The area is characterized by a semi-arid climate, with summer temperatures often soaring to a maximum of around 45°C. The study area is primarily agricultural, with the main crops being cotton, groundnuts, pulses, jowar, and paddy. All season connecting roads and sampling locations are shown in the location map.15
Hydrogeology
In the southern part of the study region, the predominant exposed rock formation is the Peninsular Gneiss, which forms the underlying basement of the basin. Limestone formations are more commonly found in the central areas of the region, interbedded with purple and glauconitic shales, and a conglomerate layer at the base, indicating an unconformable contact with underlying granite. The northwestern part of the area is dominated by the Deccan Traps. The area also exhibits a geological boundary where sedimentary rocks meet granite, shaped by the east–west trending Gogi-Kurlagere reverse fault, which reveals formations such as limestone, grey and purple shales, and rocks belonging to the Bhima basin.
This region falls within the lower Bhima basin, part of the Sedam subgroup, and specifically within the Shahabad Formation, which is characterized by vertically alternating layers of limestone and shale. The sediments of the Bhima Basin overlie the ancient Precambrian granite-greenstone terrain, positioned along the northeastern margin of the Dharwar Craton.16 Foote (2001) historically classified the Bhima basin into two stratigraphic divisions: the Upper and Lower Bhima Series, based on distinct sedimentary units.17 These sequences include repeated layers of limestone and shale, as well as formations of conglomerate and sandstone. Granite outcrops are uncommon due to widespread agricultural activity in the region. Nonetheless, the granitic rocks within the Bhima basin are notable for their elevated uranium content, which is mobilized from accessory minerals and accumulates along fault zones under the influence of hydrothermal processes. The northwestern part of the sedimentary sequence is capped by Deccan Trap formations, which date back to the Upper Cretaceous to Eocene epochs (refer to Figure 2).
![]() | Figure 2: Geological representation of the study region.
|
In the majority of locations, the basement rocks are overlain by a shallow cover of topsoil—primarily lateritic.15 Groundwater is primarily found in jointed, weathered, and fractured zones of the strata. Rainfall serves as the primary source of groundwater recharge, with additional contributions from canal seepage and irrigation return flow. From a hydrogeological perspective, the sedimentary terrain in the northwest is characterized by a complex subsurface layering, while in the central and southeastern parts, topsoil directly overlies basement rocks composed of Peninsular Gneiss and granite.
Drainage System
Water quality refers to the chemical, physical, and biological characteristics of water,18 which collectively determine its appropriateness for purposes like drinking, recreation, and supporting aquatic ecosystems.19 These factors are further influenced by stream flow, which affects both water quality and quantity.20
The study area exhibits a dendritic drainage pattern, with most streams flowing eastward towards the Bhima River, located about 20Km away. The morphology of these streams transitions from a plain to a gentle slope as they flow from west to east. According to Ramaling Natikar et al., the shape and size of streams are influenced by the geological formations that determine their morphometry.21 In the southern portion of the study area, a small creek flows from north to south before curving eastward. A reduction in stream flow can negatively impact the various uses of a water body, including its ecological health and suitability for human activities.20,22
Hydrochemical analysis
One of the most important initial steps in fixing issues with domestic water quality is locating a water analysis from a testing facility. Prior to testing, it might have been concerned about the safety of the water used in the domiciliary. A correctly interpreted water analysis report is crucial for determining the exact cause of contamination issues and for determining what kind of remedial action to take.
Regarding public water systems, many established criteria are legally enforceable and based on health concerns, while others are determined by nuisance factors (taste, odor, discoloration, etc). 22 samples of groundwater and surface water from 8 distinct sampling locations (Hothpeth, Hulkal, Kodamanalli, Saidapur, Maddaraki, Mudbal, Ganwar, and B. Gudi) were examined for different physico-chemical properties. Table1 provides a summary of the outcomes.
Table 1: Physiochemical parameter ranges in the study area.
Physio-chemical Parameter | Villages of the Study Area (Shahapur Taluka, Yadgir District) | ||||||||
Hothpeth | Hulkal | Kodamanahalli | Saidapur | Maddaraki | Mudbal | Ganwar | B Gudi | ||
pH | Min. | 6.85 | 7.01 | 7.53 | 7.28 | 6.28 | 6.98 | 7.12 | 6.27 |
Max. | 7.13 | 7.35 | 7.72 | 7.1 | 7.48 | 8.98 | 7.19 | ||
Electrical Conductivity (uS/cm) | Min. | 876 | 1730 | 931 | 2150 | 925 | 1100 | 1500 | 1410 |
Max. | 1470 | 2430 | 3350 | 1800 | 2400 | 10000 | 2270 | ||
TDS (ppm) | Min. | 462 | 910 | 462 | 1140 | 510 | 610 | 860 | 760 |
Max. | 770 | 1280 | 1820 | 950 | 1310 | 5460 | 1260 | ||
Total Alkalinity (ppm) | Min. | 404 | 456 | 428 | 652 | 440 | 608 | 652 | 644 |
Max. | 600 | 684 | 736 | 532 | 840 | 1120 | 684 | ||
Total Hardness (ppm) | Min. | 515 | 495 | 415 | 605 | 385 | 455 | 490 | 575 |
Max. | 575 | 610 | 705 | 615 | 550 | 1005 | 995 | ||
Calcium (ppm) | Min. | 44.04 | 42.04 | 24.02 | 88.09 | 8.01 | 18.02 | 44.04 | 78.08 |
Max. | 78.08 | 114.1 | 118.1 | 58.06 | 30.03 | 154.15 | 138.1 | ||
Sodium (ppm) | Min. | 144.04 | 142.04 | 124.02 | 186.09 | 140.02 | 180.02 | 166.07 | 175.08 |
Max. | 174.08 | 1104.11 | 1120.12 | 1008.01 | 1114.01 | 1150.15 | 1130.1 | ||
Magnesium(ppm) | Min. | 78.26 | 64.84 | 76.92 | 91.26 | 59.23 | 99.49 | 77.29 | 90.3 |
Max. | 104.8 | 93.88 | 96.44 | 144.94 | 116.7 | 146.6 | 154 | ||
Chloride (ppm) | Min. | 110.63 | 164.5 | 195.7 | 249.62 | 147.5 | 167.4 | 309 | 343.2 |
Max. | 138.99 | 232.6 | 280.8 | 180.8 | 354.6 | 428 | 451 | ||
Fluoride (ppm) | Min. | 3 | 2.1 | 2.15 | 3.15 | 3.75 | 2.85 | 2.85 | 2.18 |
Max. | 3.5 | 3.26 | 2.75 | 3.85 | 3.82 | 3.18 | 3.26 | ||
Nitrate (ppm) | Min. | 1.1 | 0.73 | 0.45 | 4.03 | 2.25 | 1.18 | 0.52 | 0.55 |
Max. | 2.05 | 3.17 | 0.56 | 8.42 | 6.36 | 5.9 | 0.64 |
Climate
After January, April is the hottest month in the research region due to the quick increase in temperature. Four seasons distinguish the year's climate. The Southwest monsoon typically prevails from June to September, succeeded by the post-monsoon period, which spans from October to November, April to May is the hot season.
Results
Temperature of Water
Although the study area experiences mostly hot weather, Water temperature significantly affects the chemical and biochemical dynamics of aquatic systems, with observed values generally ranging from 25°C to 45°C. Because of the high temperature, clear sky, and low water level, the summertime water temperature was high.23
pH
pH represents the measure of hydrogen ion concentration in water.24 A pH value below 7 signifies an acidic condition, while values above 7 extending up to 14 represent alkaline conditions. pH of the water systems affects most biological, chemical, and geological reactions. According to WHO guidelines, the acceptable pH range for drinking water lies between 6.5 and 8.5.25
In the current study, the pH values of the water samples ranged from 6.27 to 8.98.The pH values in the Bheemarayana Gudi (B Gudi) and Hothpeth area lower than the allowable limits, at 6.27 and 6.28, respectively.
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
The behavior of groundwater's salinity is shown by total dissolved solids. Although it is not deemed idea for drinking water sources, water with more than 500ppm of TDS is permitted in certain situations. TDS levels Within the study region, values ranged from 590 ppm and 5460 ppm.
![]() | Figure 3: Spatial variation of total dissolved solids within the surveyed region.
|
Table 2: Groundwater classification based on TDS after Davis and Dewiest (31,23)
TDS (ppm) | Water type | Number of Samples | % |
<500 | Desirable for drinking | 1 | 4.54 |
500-1000 | Permissible for Drinking | 11 | 50 |
<3000 | Useful for Irrigation | 8 | 36.36 |
>3000 | Unfit for Drinking and Irrigation | 2 | 9.1 |
Electrical Conductivity (EC)
Water's capacity to conduct electricity is dependent on the amount of salts and inorganic compounds it contains. It also changes depending on the temperature of the water. The content of salt and inorganic compounds in the water has altered because of changes in electro conductivity. Inorganic substances that are dissolved in water and are mostly found in ionized form are measured using the electrochemical conductivity (EC) levels vary between 876 and 10,000 uS/cm.
Higher EC values were recorded in several places, including Ganwar (10,000 micro-uS /cm), B Gudi (1260 micro uS /cm), Hulkal (2430 micro uS /cm), Mudbal (2400 micro uS /cm), and Kodamanahalli (3350 micro uS /cm).
![]() | Figure 4: Spatial patterns of electrical conductivity within the surveyed area.
|
These EC values and their spatial distribution throughout the research region are probably visually represented by the figure 4.
Total Hardness (TH)
Hard water tends to increase the boiling point of water and reduces the formation of soap lather. The amount of calcium or magnesium salt, or both, determines how hard the water is. The hardness displayed values are in the range of 385 ppm to 1005 ppm. Figure 5 illustrates the spatial variation in total hardness. When groundwater contains more than 300 ppm of CaCO3, it is regarded as extremely hard. The WHO worldwide rules state that the most acceptable limit for TH in drinking water is 100 ppm, while the maximum allowable amount is 500 ppm. Each sample contains above the uppermost permissible limits (Table 4).
![]() | Figure 5: Total Hardness distribution in the study area.
|
Flouride (F)
Fluoride can be found in nature as phosphorite crystals, rock phosphate, and fluorspar (fluorite). Fluoride levels in some black shales and organic-rich sediments may be higher than average. Because these rocks contain organic content, weathering processes may mobilize fluoride more easily, resulting in higher quantities in groundwater.7,13,26 Some of the sampling stations in this study had fluoride concentrations above the WHO's acceptable limit of 1.5 ppm.25 Fluoride in these water samples may originate from rock weathering, the use of phosphatic fertilizers in agriculture, or sewage sludge.
![]() | Figure 6: Geographical distribution of fluoride across the study area.
|
Table 3: Surface and Groundwater samples of the study area surpassed the permissible limits recommended by the WHO for drinking purposes.
Parameters | WHO International Standard (2011) | Number of Samples Exceeding Permissible Limits | Percentage of Samples Exceeding Permissible Limits (%) | |
Desired Limit | Permissible Limit | |||
pH | 6.5-8.5 | 8.5 | 1 | 4.54 |
TH (ppm) | 200 | 500 | 12 | 54.54 |
Na (ppm) | - | 200 | 8 | 36.36 |
Ca (ppm) | 100 | 200 | 8 | 36.36 |
Cl (ppm) | - | 250 | 9 | 40.90 |
F (ppm) | 0.5 | 1.5 | 22 | 100 |
TDS (ppm) | 500 | 1000 | 11 | 50 |
During the study period, concentrations varied between 2.1 ppm and 3.85 ppm, as illustrated in Figure 6, all of which are more than the WHO's acceptable limit of 1.0 ppm,26 according to this study. Higher levels of fluoride are found near Maddaraki (3.85 ppm), Mudbal (3.82 ppm), Hothpeth (3.5 ppm), B. Gudi (3.26 ppm), Ganwar (3.16 ppm), and Hulkal.
Total Alkalinity (TA)
It is a measure of amount of bicarbonate, carbonate or hydroxide in water. The recommended range of drinking water is 20 – 200 ppm as CaCO3, local geology is the biggest contributor of alkalinity in water. Water quality and its effects on aquatic life are greatly influenced by alkalinity, which buffers the pH level of the water. A steady pH or water with a high alkalinity makes their living conditions ideal. Since carbonate rocks (CaCO3 or limestone) are the primary source of alkaline water, alkalinity and water hardness are closely related.
![]() | Figure 7: Spatial distribution of total alkalinity across the study area.
|
Alkalinity levels in the study area were found to range between 400 ppm and 1120 ppm, as depicted in Figure 7. The high alkalinity values observed in the following areas: B Gudi (684 ppm), Kodamanahalli (736 ppm), Maddaraki (532 ppm), Hothpeth (600 ppm), Ganwar (1120 ppm).
Sodium: In the study area, sodium content varies. The values varied significantly, ranging from a minimum of 124.02 ppm in Kodamanahalli to a maximum of 1150.15 ppm in Ganwar.
Calcium: Calcium concentrations in water samples from the study area range from a minimum of 8.01 ppm in Maddaraki to a maximum of 154.15 ppm in Ganwar. The elevated calcium levels in the Ganwar region are likely due to the presence of limestone formations.
Magnesium:The magnesium concentration ranges from 59.23ppm (Maddaraki) to 146.6ppm (Ganwar) which is once again the geological influence of Dolomitic limestone in the study area.
Chloride: Although chloride is a Earth’s crust minor component of the, it is a major dissolved constituent in natural waters. In the study area, chloride concentrations range from 110.63 ppm at Hothpeth to 451 ppm at B. Gudi.
Nitrate: Nitrate concentrations range from as low as 0.45 ppm at Kodamanahalli to a maximum of 8.42 ppm at Maddaraki. All the samples are falling within safe limit as mandated by WHO.
Table 4: Comparison of Physico-chemical parameters of Open well and Borewell samples of the study area.
Parameter | Hothpeth | Hulkal | Kodamanahalli | Saidapur | Maddaraki | Mudbal | Ganwar | B Gudi | ||||||
BW | OW | BW | OW | BW | OW | OW | BW | OW | BW | OW | BW | OW | BW | |
Average | Average | Average | Average | Average | Average | Average | Average | |||||||
pH | 6.9 | 7.1 | 7.2 | 7.2 | 7.7 | 7.6 | 7.3 | 6.8 | 6.3 | 7.1 | 7.5 | 7.4 | 9 | 6.7 |
EC | 1053 | 1470 | 1730 | 2120 | 931 | 2725 | 2150 | 1630 | 925 | 1750 | 1960 | 3840 | 10000 | 1840 |
TDS | 556 | 770 | 910 | 1106.7 | 590 | 1425 | 1140 | 865 | 510 | 960 | 1070 | 2100 | 5460 | 1010 |
TA | 464 | 600 | 456 | 657.3 | 428 | 730 | 652 | 522 | 440 | 730 | 608 | 718 | 1120 | 785 |
TH | 560 | 515 | 505 | 556.7 | 415 | 572.5 | 605 | 505 | 385 | 485 | 550 | 755 | 490 | 785 |
Ca | 61.1 | 74.1 | 66.1 | 84.8 | 38 | 71.1 | 88.1 | 33 | 20 | 16 | 30 | 99.1 | 66.1 | 108.1 |
Na | 157.1 | 174.1 | 166.1 | 481.1 | 139 | 622.1 | 186.1 | 581 | 140 | 647 | 230 | 1097.1 | 166.1 | 652.6 |
Mg | 97.6 | 78.3 | 81 | 81.6 | 76.9 | 94.2 | 91.3 | 102.1 | 81.1 | 108.1 | 115 | 120.8 | 77.3 | 122.4 |
Cl | 131.9 | 110.7 | 164.5 | 219.4 | 195.7 | 266.6 | 249.6 | 238.3 | 147.5 | 232.6 | 354.6 | 368.8 | 348.9 | 397.1 |
F | 3.4 | 3 | 2.3 | 2.7 | 2.2 | 2.5 | 3.2 | 3.8 | 3.8 | 3.2 | 3.8 | 3.2 | 2.9 | 2.7 |
NO3 | 1.6 | 1.7 | 2.2 | 1.8 | 0.5 | 0.6 | 4 | 5.6 | 2.3 | 1.6 | 6.4 | 3.2 | 3 | 0.6 |
Table 5: Correlation matrix
pH | EC | TDS | TA | TH | Ca | Mg | Cl | F | NO3 | |
pH | 1 | |||||||||
EC | 0.67 | 1 | ||||||||
TDS | 0.64 | 1.00 | 1 | |||||||
TA | 0.66 | 0.74 | 0.75 | 1 | ||||||
TH | -0.07 | 0.30 | 0.32 | 0.09 | 1 | |||||
Ca | 0.08 | 0.33 | 0.33 | 0.09 | 0.77 | 1 | ||||
Mg | -0.20 | 0.13 | 0.15 | 0.05 | 0.74 | 0.15 | 1 | |||
Cl | 0.25 | 0.52 | 0.53 | 0.53 | 0.68 | 0.41 | 0.63 | 1 | ||
F | -0.28 | -0.10 | -0.06 | -0.22 | 0.10 | -0.11 | 0.27 | 0.00 | 1 | |
NO3 | 0.00 | -0.03 | 0.00 | 0.04 | -0.17 | -0.45 | 0.21 | 0.11 | 0.44 | 1 |
Discussion
The observed analytical data shows the pH ranges from 6.27 (B Gudi) to 8.98 (Ganwar). The Ganwar area is comprising of limestone. The limestone present in the Ganwar region significantly influences the area's pH, contributing to its high alkalinity. The sampling points revealed that Ganwar village had a higher TDS of 5460 ppm and Kodamanahalli had lower TDS values of 590ppm (Figure 3). According to the TDS-based classification, only 54% of the water samples fall within the acceptable range for drinking purposes (Table 2). All these samples comprised high carbonate, bicarbonate, chloride, calcium, magnesium,sodium, and potassium cations water with high TDS. Regions underlain by limestone possess a greater range of TDS, consistent with the observation that alkaline rocks give more solids for dissolution and consequently conditions other than lithology dictate TDS content.
Electrical conductivity (EC) values range from 876 uS/cm to 10,000 uS/cm. Higher EC values appear in the areas where several geological formations congregate, sandstone, and/or limestone contact. TDS is positively co related with EC and (Table5). The analysis of calcium and sodium levels in the study area indicates that 36.36% of the water samples exceed the permissible limits (Table 3).
The disintegration and release of the chemicals into the water can be impacted by the presence of limestone, shale, conglomerate, or sandstone, which can change the EC of the water. The variations are described by Scatena,27 have some of the controlling factors on the mineral content and, therefore, the electrical conductivity of the water and land use is one of the most important variables, industrial and agricultural operations, and mineral concentrations. Water with high electrical conductivity can lead to corrosion of metal components in appliances such as boilers, as well as household fixtures like faucets and water heaters. Excessive conductivity also eliminates species of plants that provide habitat and serve as food.28-34
These were found to have high Total Hardness values in the areas that are: B Gudi (995 ppm), Kodamanahalli (705 ppm), Maddaraki (815 ppm), Hothpeth (610 ppm), Ganwar (1005 ppm), and others (Figure 5). Calcium in groundwater in the research area is also conforming to the pattern of TH, having a positive relationship with calcium concentration and TH. Calcium carbonate-rich rocks such as limestone can increase water hardness by releasing calcium ions upon dissolution. In the study area, more than 54% of the water samples were found to be unsuitable for drinking based on WHO guidelines.
All Groundwater samples in the field area contain high levels of fluoride and fluoride content varies between and among various lithounits.The varying lithounits shales limestone and gneisses carry the high level of F > 1.5 mg/l. Groundwaters containing high levels of fluoride are perhaps because of their highly schistose nature permitting easy and fast dissolution of the source minerals. Significant fluoride concentrations can be found in sedimentary rocks, dolomite, and limestone, particularly in regions where these minerals are common. The total alkalinity of the area ranges from 400ppm to 1120ppm. Ganwar area is showing highest TA as it is comprised of limestone which releases carbonates and bicarbonates to the groundwater by dissolution. Elevated pH levels are attributed to increased alkalinity and bicarbonate concentrations in the area's groundwater. The higher sodium, magnesium, and calcium level in the Ganwar area can be attributed to limestone lithology. Nitrate levels in all the analyzed samples fall within the permissible limits set by the WHO.
Maddaraki, Mudbal, and Ganwar are mainly agricultural regions, where nitrate in groundwater likely results from sewage, fertilizers, and animal waste. Positive correlations among pH, EC, TDS, and TA suggest chloride contributes to groundwater hardness. Cation and anion levels are influenced by geology, soil, and arid climate.
Conclusion
The research focused on assessing the chemical composition and quality of groundwater in Hothpeth and the surrounding villages located in Shahapur Taluka, within the Yadgir District. This region falls under the Bhima geological formation, characterized by limestone, shale layers, Closepet granite, Deccan trap rocks, and Peninsular Gneissic Complex (PGC), exhibiting a dendritic drainage structure. Groundwater samples from the area were systematically collected and subjected to analysis for a range of physicochemical indicators, with a particular emphasis on fluoride concentration. The results indicated elevated values of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Electrical Conductivity (EC), Total Hardness (TH), Total Alkalinity (TA), Calcium (Ca), Chloride (Cl), Fluoride (F), and Sodium (Na). Notably, fluoride levels surpassed the World Health Organization’s permissible limit of 1.5 ppm (2011) in every sample, establishing it as a significant geogenic pollutant. Among the detected ions, sodium was most prevalent, followed by chloride, magnesium, calcium, fluoride, and nitrate, in that order. The excessive fluoride content is likely due to the leaching of fluoride-rich minerals found in the local rock formations—particularly glauconitic shale and Closepet granite—facilitated by the naturally alkaline groundwater conditions. Settlements situated near geological contact zones—such as Hothpeth, Maktapur, Mudabal, Maratagi, Ganwar, and Kodamanahalli—are particularly susceptible to contamination. The study underscores the critical role of local geology in shaping groundwater quality and stresses the need for routine monitoring of fluoride concentrations to safeguard public health.
Acknowledgment
The authors acknowledge with gratitude to Govt. Engineering college, Raichur for extending laboratory facilities.
Funding Sources
The author(s) received no financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.
Conflict of Interest
The author(s) do not have any conflict of interest.
Data Availability Statement
The water samples have been collected from the study area and physico-chemical parameters have been analyzed in the laboratory.
Ethics Statement
The study was conducted in accordance with the ethical standards ensuring transparency and respect for all involved.
Informed Consent Statement
Participants provide informed consent, acknowledging the study's purpose, procedures, risks, and their right to withdraw at any time.
Permission to reproduce material from other sources:
Not Applicable
Author Contributions
Ramalinga Natikar wrote whole paper,
Lavanya Hegde review and editing.
Aloka Timmappa Hegde prepared map, edited and reviewed.
References
- Massoud MA. Assessment of water quality along a recreational section of the Damour River in Lebanon using the water quality index. Environmental monitoring and assessment. 2012 Jul; 184:4151-60.
CrossRef - S. Muhammad, M. T. Shah, and S. Khan, 2011. “Health risk assessment of heavy metals and their source apportionment in drinking water of Kohistan region, Northern Pakistan,” Microchemical Journal, 2011, vol. 98, no. 2, pp. 334–343.
CrossRef - Sahoo, M.M.; Patra, K.; Khatua, K, 2015. Inference of Water Quality Index Using ANFIA and PCA. Aquat. Procedia 2015, 4, 1099–1106.
CrossRef - Witek, Z.; Jarosiewicz, A. Long-term changes in nutrient status of river water. Pol. J. Environ. Stud. 2009, 18, 1177–1184.
- Azrina, A., H. E. Khoo, M. A. Idris, Amin Amin, and M. R. Razman. "Major inorganic elements in tap water samples in Peninsular Malaysia.", Malaysian Journal of Nutrition 2011: vol. 17, 271-276.
- R. Cidu, F. Frau, and P. Tore. “Drinking water quality: comparing inorganic components in bottled water and Italian tap water,” Journal of Food Composition and Analysis. 2011, vol. 24, no. 2.
CrossRef - Hegde Lavanya, Wodeyar B K,
,Studies on the surface and subsurface water pollution and its environmental impact in parts of Sandur Hospet mining sector Bellary district Karnataka India, 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/10603/108022, PhD thesis, 2004. - Hegde Lavanya, Vaidya AS, Wodeyar BK, Hegde A. Distribution of Ostracoda in Lake Sediments around Sanduru-Hospet with Special reference to pollution. IJATEST-ISSN:2456-1126, January. 2021, Volume.6. Issue.1.
CrossRef - J.K. Fawell The impact of inorganic chemicals on water quality and health. Annali-Istituto Superiore di Sanita. 1993 Jan 1(29):293-303.
- Kulandaivel AR, Kumar PE, Perumal V, Magudeswaran PN. Water quality index of river Bhavani at erode region, Tamil Nadu, India. Nature, Environment and Pollution Technology. 2009;8(3):551-4.
- Senthilkumar S, Meenambal T. Study of groundwater quality near Sipcot industrial estate of Perundurai of Erode district, Tamilnadu. Nature Environment and Pollution Technology. 2007;6(4):741.
- Pillay M, Hoo T, Chu KK. Drinking water quality surveillance and safety in malaysia for WHO workshop on drinking water quality, surveillance and safety. Country Report. 2001.
- Kumara N, Ravikumar P, Prakash KL. An investigation of fluoride contamination in groundwater of Yadgir district, Karnataka. Life Sci Inform Publ. 2020;6(1):32-9.
- Vineeth Ajith, An integrated methodology for assessment of drinking-water quality in low-income settings. Environmental development. Volume 46, June 2023, 100862
CrossRef - Central Ground water board, Ground water information booklet Yadgiri district, Karnataka, Feb-2013.
- Manoj S, Thirumurugan M, Elango L. An integrated approach for assessment of groundwater quality in and around uranium mineralized zone, Gogi region, Karnataka, India. Arabian Journal of Geosciences. 2017 Dec;10:1-7.
CrossRef - Foote RB. The Geological Features of the South Mahratta Country and Adjacent Districts. MEMOIRS-GEOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF INDIA. 2001(1):43-6.
- Mergia, Tenagne Jiru, Amanual Hadera Tesfay, Gebrekidan Mebrahtu Tesfamariam, Desta Berhe Sbhatu, Kiros Gebremichail Gebresilasie, and Goitom Gebreyohannes Berhe. "Assessment on Physicochemical Quality of Tap and Bottled Water in Mekelle City, Ethiopia." (2025).
CrossRef - S. Khan, M. Shahnaz, N. Jehan, S. Rehman, M. T. Shah, and I. Din, 2013. “Drinking water quality and human health risk in Charsadda district, Pakistan,” Journal of Cleaner Production, 2013, vol. 60, pp. 93–101
,.
CrossRef - USGS, Water Science: Water Quality, August, 2005d. http://ga.water.usgs.gov/edu/waterquality.html
- Kavcar P, Sofuoglu A, Sofuoglu SC. A health risk assessment for exposure to trace metals via drinking water ingestion pathway. International journal of hygiene and environmental health. 2009 Mar 1;212(2):216-27.
CrossRef - Ramaling D Natikar, Krishnappa R Olekar, Tejaswai Lakkundi, Basavaraj Simpi & Murugesh A Malapur. “Morphometric analysis of don river basin, vijayapur district, karnataka, india using remote sensing and gis techniques”.,International Journal of Environment, Ecology, Family and Urban Studies (IJEEFUS), ISSN (P): 2250–0065; ISSN (E): 2321–0109 .2022, Vol. 13, Issue 1, Jun 2023, 1–12
- Richter, B.D. March. Protecting Instream Flows: How Much Water Does a River Need? Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): 2003 Watershed Academy on the Web. www.epa.gov/watertrain/river/.
- Ahamed AJ, Loganathan K, Jayakumar R. Hydrochemical characteristics and quality assessment of groundwater in Amaravathi river basin of Karur district, Tamil Nadu, South India. Sustainable Water Resources Management. 2015 Sep;1:273-91.
CrossRef
CrossRefCrossRefCrossRef - Vainio H, Heseltine E, Partensky C, Wilbourn J. Meeting of the IARC working group on beryllium, cadmium, mercury and exposures in the glass manufacturing industry. Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health. 1993 Oct 1:360-3.
CrossRef - WHO (Ed.), Guidelines for Drinking Water Quality, fourth ed. WHO press, 2011, p. 564.
- Scatena FN. Drinking water quality. Drinking Water from Forests. 2000 Sep;7.
- Basavaraja D, MA Bellakki and SL Arunkumar.Assessment of groundwater fluoride using GIS in Shahapur Taluk, Hyderabad-Karnataka region, India. International Journal of Chemical Studies. 2020; 8(1): 231-233
CrossRef - Katsoyiannis IA, Zouboulis AI. Removal of uranium from contaminated drinking water: A mini review of available treatment methods. Desalination Water Treat. 2013;51(13-15):2915-2925. doi:10.1080/19443994.2012.748300.
CrossRef - Tuzen M, Soylak M. Evaluation of Metal Levels of Drinking Waters from the Tokat-Black Sea Region of Turkey. Polish Journal of Environmental Studies. 2006 Nov 1;15(6), pp. 915–919.
- Srinivasan R, Pandit SA, Karunakara N, Salim D, Kumara KS, Kumar MR, Khatei G, Ramkumar KD. High uranium concentration in groundwater used for drinking in parts of eastern Karnataka, India. Current science. 2021;121(11):1459-69.
CrossRef - Davis, S.N. and Dewiest, R.J.M. Hydrogeology. Jon Wiley and Sons Inc., New York, 1966, 463pp.
- Salve VB, Hiware CJ. Study on water quality of Wanparakalpa reservoir Nagpur, Near Parli Vaijnath, District Beed. Marathwada region. J Aqua Biol. 2008;21(2):113-7.
- Simeonov, V.; Einax, J.; Stanimirova, I.; Kraft, J. Environmetric modeling and interpretation of river water monitoring data. Anal. Bioanal. Chem. 2002, 374, 898–905.
CrossRef