Groundwater quality assessment by Water quality index (WQI) and Multivariate statistical analysis (MSA) for coastal zones of Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh

Groundwater is a vital resource for the drinking water supply to people in areas residing coastal zones. Rapid industrialization increased human population, and anthropogenic activities led groundwater pollution. The quality should be continuously monitored analyse suitability of water, it only possible by index. In current study, we attempted determine Mandal headquarters zones Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh, using index (WQi) considering parameters pH, Electrical conductivity, Total Dissolved Solids, Hardness, calcium magnesium, potassium, sodium, health assessment tool, multivariate statistical analysis. results found that WQi ranged from 49.6 361.7, post-monsoon season, Etcherla station was not advisable drinking. Human risk showed children these sampling stations are more prone non-carcinogenic risks associated with nitrate Proper reduction measures must taken depreciate seepage into groundwater. Piper plots correlation matrices anion-cation interaction, principal component analyzed pollution sources. study concluded deteriorate quality, indirect saltwater intrusion identified, treatment necessary before consumption.