A recent study has uncovered troubling news about groundwater quality in Kerala's agricultural heartland. Researchers found that the quality of groundwater in certain parts of the Chittur region within Palakkad district has significantly deteriorated. This area, often called the rice bowl of Kerala, now faces contamination issues that could affect both drinking water and farming.
Elevated Contaminants Found in Water Samples
The study revealed elevated levels of sodium, potassium, and fluoride in collected groundwater samples. These findings point to a serious water quality problem in a region that depends heavily on groundwater for domestic needs, agriculture, and industrial purposes. The contamination appears in the crystalline aquifer located in eastern Palakkad.
Understanding the Palghat Gap's Role
The Chittur region sits within the unique geographical feature known as the Palghat Gap. This significant break in the Western Ghats mountain range creates a distinct climate pattern. The area receives relatively low annual rainfall of about 700 millimeters, which may contribute to the groundwater quality issues researchers identified.
Research Methodology and Findings
Scientists conducted a comprehensive groundwater compatibility study by analyzing major cations, anions, macronutrients, and fluorine content in groundwater samples. They collected 48 samples from excavated wells and borewells throughout the study area, evaluating water quality against World Health Organization drinking standards.
The analysis showed considerable differences in groundwater chemistry between phreatic (shallow) aquifers and deeper aquifers. While excess fluoride appeared in only a few samples, the overall pattern of contamination raised significant concerns.
Expert Insights from Kerala University
E Shaji from the Department of Geology at Kerala University has been tracking this region for several years. He explained, "We regularly study this area, which the Central Groundwater Board often marks as semi-critical or critical. We see contamination in the aquifer, which calls for better management and the need for recharging it. Often, we find that this aspect of recharging the aquifers is not properly advised or implemented."
Water Access Methods in the Region
Local communities access groundwater through different methods depending on depth. Shallow groundwater comes from excavated wells reaching 3 to 20 meters below ground level. Bore wells tap into deeper resources at 30 to 60 meters below ground level. For even deeper semi-confined to confined aquifers, bore wells extend to impressive depths of 100 to 300 meters below ground level.
Changing Agricultural Practices
The water crisis has already begun changing farming patterns in this traditionally agrarian land. Shaji noted, "This used to be a highly agrarian land, but now people are doing mixed farming in the wake of the water crisis. Rainwater harvesting and better groundwater management will need to be implemented to correct this contamination in the aquifer."
Recommendations for Improvement
The study calls for several important measures to address the groundwater quality issues:
- Regular assessments of agricultural run-off affecting shallow aquifers
- Implementation of salt-tolerant crops in affected areas
- Development of proper drainage systems in high-electrical conductivity zones for irrigation operations
- Improved groundwater management practices
- Enhanced aquifer recharge programs
These findings highlight the urgent need for action in a region where groundwater serves as the essential source for multiple critical needs. The contamination threatens not just drinking water safety but also agricultural productivity in Kerala's important rice-growing area.
