ASSES MENT OF WATER QUALITY INDEX AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Introduction : Disposal of sewage water into fresh water aquifers is the main cause of groundwater pollution. The present study of groundwater monitoring was undertaken to investigate physicochemical characteristics of some groundwater samples from differe nt area located in Punjab. Materials and Methods: 20 water samples, 10 each from urban and rural areas of district Faridkot, Punjab were obtained from hand - pumps with a power - driven motor used for drinking and other household activities. Data was collecte d, compiled and analyzed by using SPSS - 16 and chi - square test was used for statistical analysis and p value<0.05 was considered as significant value. Results: In the present study ph, total hardness, chlorides, fluorides, iron were more than the permissibl e limits recommended by WHO guidelines in both rural and urban water, and alkalinity was more in case of rural water. Conclusion: The groundwater samples collected from hand - pumps showed deviations from water quality standards indicating groundwater conta mination. Citizens, legislators and regulators should join hands together to save this valuable resource of nature