Geochemistry of Groundwater in the Semi-Arid Crystalline Terrain of Sri Lanka and Its Health Implications among Agricultural Communities

Chronic kidney disease with uncertain etiology (CKDu) is an emerging health problem in Sri Lanka, particularly among the dry-zone farming communities that use groundwater for drinking. We investigated quality of area where both high- and low-prevalence clusters CKDu have been recorded. Eighty-four five surface water samples, covering selected region, were collected analyzed major anions cations. The region mainly Ca-Mg-HCO3 type, probably due to long residence time fractured hard rock aquifers this region. Irrespective prevalence, over 50% samples exceeded recommended limits EC/TDS, alkalinity, hardness, Mg2+ content groundwater. Water hardness was dominated by Mg2+. High fluoride up 4.0 mg/L also found most from index (WQI) values indicated 42% regions no or low prevalence 49% high poor quality. spatial distribution WQI concentration overlapped, indicating direct influence on study In addition, higher overlapped hotspots, impact studied river basin. can be used effectively demarcate areas possible groundwater-related effects Lanka.