Assessment of Seasonal Variations in Groundwater Quality Using Physicochemical Analysis and Water Quality Index in Panna, Madhya Pradesh, India: A Review

Abstract

Groundwater is one of the most important freshwater resources for domestic, agricultural and institutional requirements, particularly in regions where surface-water availability is seasonal and uneven. In India, increasing dependence on groundwater, rapid urbanization, inadequate drainage and sewage infrastructure, agricultural activities and changing recharge conditions have increased the vulnerability of aquifers to both quantitative and qualitative degradation. Panna District of Madhya Pradesh represents an important area for groundwater-quality assessment because of its varied geological formations, seasonal climatic conditions and increasing dependence on groundwater resources. The present review synthesizes the available information on seasonal groundwater-quality variation in selected locations of Panna using physicochemical analysis and the Water Quality Index (WQI). The documented investigation covers seven sampling locations, namely Diamond Chauraha, Mohan Nivas Chauraha, Gandhi Chowk, Ajaygarh Chauraha, Kishorji Mandir, Baldevji Mandir and Purana Power House. Seven major physicochemical parameters—chloride, calcium hardness, total hardness, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), temperature and total dissolved solids (TDS)—were considered. Groundwater monitoring was conducted from May to August, representing pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon conditions. The reviewed data indicate considerable spatial and seasonal variability in groundwater chemistry. During May, TDS ranged from 134 to 481.41 mg/L, while total hardness varied from 300 to 370 mg/L. The highest TDS was observed at Purana Power House, whereas Ajaygarh Chauraha showed the lowest TDS. The WQI values reported for the selected locations indicate comparatively better groundwater quality at Ajaygarh Chauraha and deterioration at locations subjected to greater urban and anthropogenic pressure. The review also identifies important research gaps, including limited monitoring duration, restricted sampling density and the absence of several important chemical and microbiological parameters. Integration of long-term monitoring, GIS, remote sensing and expanded hydrochemical analysis is recommended for sustainable groundwater management in Panna.