Irrigation Water Quality Assessment of Agra Canal's Haryana Stretch in India: Insights and Implications

Abstract

The study presents a comprehensive assessment of the water sustainability of the irrigation system and the ecosystem based on a detailed analysis of the Agra Canal's water quality. A survey involving farmers and local communities was conducted using questionnaires, followed by the collection of water samples from six points during the summer, monsoon, and winter seasons. The samples were analysed for hydrochemical parameters, including pH, EC, Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, SO4-2, Cl-, HCO-3, CO3-2, NO2-, boron, and heavy metals (Fe, Cu, Zn, Pb, Ni, Cr, Cd, and As). Water quality indices, such as the Sodium Absorption Ratio (SAR), Residual Sodium Carbonate (RSC), Kelly Index (KI), Permeability Index (PI), Sodium Percentage (Na%), and Magnesium Ratio (MR), were also evaluated and compared to FAO and CGWB CPCB (2000) standards. The results indicated that all parameters were within the permissible limits. SAR and RSC for 100% of samples were categorised as excellent; Na% fell within the good to medium category; PI was within the Class 2 category; MR values were < 50; and KI was also < 1 for 100% of samples, confirming the suitability of canal water for irrigation. Heavy metals were also within the FAO limits. These findings provide valuable insight for decision-makers and agricultural stakeholders to develop sustainable irrigation practices. However, further research is recommended to determine the cause of the degradation in crop quality observed with Agra Canal Water irrigation.