Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis focuses on the investigation of groundwater quality in an urban area with identified potential sources of contamination. Groundwater is a vital natural resource that serves as a primary source of drinking water for many communities. However, urbanization and various human activities have increased the risk of groundwater contamination, posing significant threats to public health and the environment. The study aims to assess the quality of groundwater in the selected urban area, identify potential sources of contamination, and provide recommendations for sustainable groundwater management. The research begins with a comprehensive literature review to establish the current understanding of groundwater quality, contamination sources, and existing remediation strategies. Chapter one provides the introduction to the study, the background of the research, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definition of key terms. Chapter two presents a detailed literature review comprising ten key items related to groundwater quality, contamination sources, urbanization impacts, and groundwater monitoring techniques. Chapter three outlines the research methodology, including the study design, sampling techniques, data collection methods, and analytical approaches. The methodology section also describes how potential contamination sources will be identified and assessed in the urban area under investigation. The chapter includes eight sub-sections to provide a clear and systematic overview of the research process. In chapter four, the findings of the groundwater quality assessment and contamination sources identification are discussed in detail. The results are analyzed using appropriate statistical and geospatial tools to evaluate the extent and severity of contamination in the study area. The chapter also examines the implications of the findings for groundwater management and proposes mitigation measures to prevent further contamination and protect water resources. Finally, chapter five presents the conclusion and summary of the thesis, highlighting the key findings, implications for policy and practice, and recommendations for future research. The study contributes to the existing knowledge on groundwater quality in urban areas and provides valuable insights for decision-makers, water resource managers, and environmental professionals. Overall, this research aims to enhance our understanding of groundwater contamination issues and promote sustainable management practices to safeguard water quality and public health in urban environments. Keywords Groundwater quality, Contamination sources, Urban area, Water management, Sustainability, Environmental health.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Investigation of groundwater quality in an urban area with potential sources of contamination" aims to address the crucial issue of assessing and understanding the quality of groundwater in urban environments that are at risk of contamination. Groundwater is a vital natural resource that serves as a primary source of drinking water for many communities. However, urban areas are often subjected to various anthropogenic activities that can lead to contamination of groundwater sources, posing significant health risks to the population. The research will focus on a specific urban area where potential sources of contamination, such as industrial activities, improper waste disposal, and urban runoff, may impact groundwater quality. By conducting a comprehensive investigation, including field surveys, water sampling, and laboratory analysis, the project seeks to evaluate the current status of groundwater quality in the study area. The project will begin with an extensive literature review to provide a solid theoretical background on groundwater quality, sources of contamination, and the potential impacts on human health and the environment. Building on this knowledge, the research methodology will be carefully designed to collect and analyze water samples from various locations within the urban area. Parameters such as pH, turbidity, heavy metals, organic pollutants, and microbial content will be measured to assess the overall quality of the groundwater. The findings from the research will be critically analyzed and discussed in chapter four, highlighting the presence of contaminants, their concentrations, spatial distribution, and potential sources. The implications of the results on human health, environmental sustainability, and water resource management will be thoroughly examined to provide valuable insights for policymakers, urban planners, and stakeholders. In conclusion, the project will offer recommendations for mitigating contamination risks and improving groundwater quality in the urban area under investigation. By raising awareness of the importance of monitoring and protecting groundwater resources, the research aims to contribute to sustainable development practices and ensure the availability of safe drinking water for urban communities.