Sewage Water Intrusion in the Groundwater of Lahore, its Causes and Protections

Abstract

Lahore is the second largest city of Pakistan with population of about ten million where almost 100% population depends for their nutrition need on groundwater supplies. Hence the water quality plays controlling role in the health of local population. To determine the groundwater quality of the Lahore, 33 water samples were collected from tubewells, shallow wells and four samples from Lahore canal which is recharge source. The water samples were analyzed for E-coli by standard multiple tube method as per guideline of WHO. The results indicate that 100% water samples collected from injector pumps installed at shallow depth 120 to 150 feet are polluted due to intrusion of sewage water. However the water samples from deep tubewells installed at 400 to 700 feet depth are free from any E-coli. Recommendations are made to over come contamination problem in shallow aquifer.