Author(s): Ali Al-Maktoumi; Osman Abdalla; Azizallahizady; Rahma Al-Mahrouqi; Rasha Al-Saadi; Al-Mamari Al-Mamari; Amira Al-Rajhi

Linked Author(s): Osman Abdalla, Ali Al-Maktoumi

Keywords: Quifer; GIS; Groundwater salinity; Isotopes; Oman

Abstract: Groundwater play an important role in public water supply in Oman. There are several wellfields operated by the concerned authority “Nama Water”. Those wellfields experienced challenges that affected their water supply in both quality and quantity. This study explores causes of water quality deterioration in Wadi Aday wellfield which is located in Muscat Governorate, Oman. Wadi Aday wellfield has recently experienced an increase in groundwater salinity and the causes are still undetected. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the origin and the mechanisms of water salinization for better management and sustainable water supply. Water samples were collected from the wellfield (Nama wells) and wells scattered upstream and downstream of the catchment (agricultural and private wells. Detailed analysis of the results shows that the dominant ions of the water collected from Nama wells are Cl-, SO42-, and Na+. The Ca++ is present in a reasonable variable amount. The prevailing processes that contribute to the excess of these ions can be attributed to the following factors: Minerals’ dissolution, evaporation, soil profile leaching, and scarce Recharge. The dissolution of minerals as the weathering of the rocks forming the aquifers is the main source of ions in the groundwater of the Wadi Aday.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3850/iahr-hic2483430201-373

Year: 2024