Groundwater quality and flow modelling in northern parts or Kelantan

This research is focused on the acquisition of aquifer depth through silica analysis and possible causes for groundwater contamination using major ion concentrations, trace element and stable isotopes analysis in parts of Kelantan. Groundwater is one of the major sources of water particularly in the rural areas for several domestic purposes. The objectives of this research include assessing the suitability of water for various purposes through determination of various physio-chemical parameters. The findings indicate that the concentrations of major ions in the groundwater samples meet the standard permissible limit. Potential contaminants related ions such bicarbonate, potassium and nitrate are also lower than the permissible limit. In terms of ionic trend, the groundwater samples are classified into Na-K-HCO3 class for pre-seasons (January 2016) and post-seasons (June 2016). In some cases with ions deficiency in samples such as calcium could possibly occurred from low clay content comprising carbonates and sodium content which also corresponds to low fluoride and bicarbonate content. From the interpreted data, it can be inferred that most groundwater are safe for drinking purpose. For trace elements, irons recorded elevated concentrations which may result in metallic palatability, staining, discoloration in water systems. The silica concentrations are below 25 mg/l for both seasonal periods. The chalcedony temperatures range from 0.00°C to 38.00°C for both season. The groundwater circulation depths during pre-season range from 0.02 km to 0.32 km while for the post-season; the calculated range is between 0.01 km and 0.32 km. In terms of groundwater compositions of δ2H and δ18O, majority of the distribution plot are marked close to local and global meteoric water line. These suggest effect of evaporation affecting the groundwater resources which reflects to meteoric origins. The groundwater modelling results show that, the groundwater flows towards north east and North China Seas which are assigned as the constant head along the coastline boundary. Few suggestions have been recommended to improve the groundwater quality including monitoring dissipation of waste such as pesticides, domestic waste and also industrial waste into the aquifer.