Assessment of groundwater quality in parts of Bikaner District, Rajasthan

Rajasthan's Bikaner District, part of the Thar Desert, is experiencing problems with falling groundwater levels, high salinity, fluoride and nitrate concentrations. Therefore, quality studies are underway to determine suitability for drinking purposes in district. Quality analysis performed using parameters such as Conductivity (EC), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), pH, Calcium, Potassium, Sodium, Nitrate, Sulfate, Chloride, Fluoride, magnesium, total hardness (TH) Bicarbonate. Conductivity, TDS TH increases were observed post-monsoon period. No changes sulphate, concentrations after rains. Most study areas have salinity therefore unsuitable consumption. However, all other chemical within maximum allowable limits according BIS standard. Unconventional energy use desalination proposed provide sustainable water. Various industrial mining man-made recharge structures (Pits Borehole Technique) near villages, resulting higher levels improved neighboring areas. Success stories can be replicated similar geographic environments. Large-scale artificial rainwater harvesting/storage/replenishment potential aquifers another management alternative, which improve groundwater.