PHYSICOCHEMICAL ASSESSMENT OF DRINKING WATER QUALITY IN TEHKAL BALA, PESHAWAR, PAKISTAN, WITH REFERENCE TO NATIONAL STANDARDS

Abstract

The present study evaluated the physicochemical quality of drinking water in the residential area of Tehkal Bala, Peshawar, Pakistan, with reference to the National Standards for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ) of Pakistan. A total of twenty household water samples were collected and analyzed for key physicochemical parameters, including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity, total hardness, calcium hardness, magnesium hardness, alkalinity, and chloride, using standard analytical procedures. The results indicated that most parameters namely pH (6.86–7.12), EC, TDS, turbidity, alkalinity, and chloride were within the permissible limits prescribed by NSDWQ, suggesting that the water is generally suitable for domestic consumption.

However, magnesium hardness consistently exceeded the recommended NSDWQ threshold across all sampling locations, representing a systematic deviation from compliance. This persistent elevation is likely attributable to geogenic processes associated with the local aquifer lithology. In addition, one sampling point exhibited marginally elevated calcium hardness, though it remained within acceptable limits at most locations. Although the whole physicochemical quality of the drinking water was classified as potable, the widespread exceedance of magnesium hardness raises concerns regarding potential long-term health implications associated with chronic exposure. The study recommends detailed hydrogeochemical investigations to identify the source and mobilization mechanisms of magnesium, the implementation of routine water quality monitoring programs, and the adoption of appropriate point-of-use treatment technologies, such as ion-exchange systems, for affected households. Strengthening public awareness and regulatory oversight is also essential to safeguard public health and ensure sustainable access to safe drinking water.