Integrated assessment of groundwater quality in Algeria's Souk Ahras region: Implications for sustainable and management water for drinking and irrigation purpose
Ahlem Bourmada, Hichem Khammar, Hadjab Ramzi, Amin Chaffai, Nadhir Bouchema, Bahaedine Hamida
Abstract
Our study represents a worthy contribution to scientific interests because it concerns an urgent needfor regular monitoring of the aquifers with regard to the Souk Ahras region for safe and sustainableuse of water. A total of 22 groundwater samples were collected during the wet and dry seasons ofsemi-arid and sub-humid areas in the year 2023. Thirteen parameters were analyzed fortemperature, pH, electrical conductivity, and various ions. Most of these parameters exceeded thestandards Water facet analysis showed the dominance of sulfate, magnesium, and chloride. Further,the CCME WQI and GWQI classified 11–54 % of the samples in the study to be potable. TheGroundwater Pollution Index indicated undetectable contamination in 63–68 % of the study area,hence the groundwater in that region is fit for human consumption. Different indices indicated that51 to 88 %, which is considered suitable for irrigation, but high salinity and magnesium renderedmore than half of the study area unsuitable for irrigation purposes., the study has given it a local andwider significance within the context of better water management strategies for irrigation anddrinking purpose in arid and semi-arid regions. • This study evaluates the groundwater quality in Algeria's Souk Ahras region, assessing its suitability for drinking and irrigation. • In 2023, groundwater in Souk Ahras, Algeria showed 11-54% potable, but high salinity and magnesium affected irrigation suitability. • Water quality indices (CCME, GWQI, GPI) indicated that 11-54 % of samples were potable and 63-68 % had insignificant pollution. • While 51-88 % of the samples were suitable for irrigation based on various indicators. • High salinity and magnesium levels rendered over half unfit for agricultural use.