Hydro-geochemistry of trace elements in groundwater of Chakari Plain, Kabul River Basin, Afghanistan

This study presents an assessment of groundwater quality with a focus on trace elements in the Chakari Basin of Afghanistan. The area, located in the south of Kabul City, is largely uninhabited. Thirteen groundwater samples and one river water sample were collected in January 2013 to measure physical characteristics, major ions and trace element concentrations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential hazards of heavy metal contamination using pollution indices, including the Water Quality Index (WQI), Nemerow Integrated Pollution Index (NIPI), Heavy Metal Pollution Index (HPI), Heavy Metal Evaluation Index (HEI), and the degree of Contamination (C _d ). The results revealed that the concentrations of copper, cobalt and chromium in the Chakari Basin groundwater are considerable. However, all heavy metal pollution indices were within permissible limits. The study infers that anthropogenic activities, particularly mineral exploration, could pose a future risk of heavy metal contamination in the area. These findings underscore the need for ongoing monitoring and management to mitigate potential risks and long-term safety of groundwater resources.