Chemical Footprints: Tracing Fertilizer and Pesticide Contamination in Wells near Kole wetlands

Abstract

Fertilizers and pesticides are the most prevalent pollutants in agricultural runoff, posing a serious threat to groundwater quality. This study investigates their influence on groundwater in Division 45 of the Thrissur Corporation. Water samples were collected from wells located at varying distances from the Kole wetland during December 2023 and analysed for key chemical parameters. The results indicate that concentrations of ammonium, fluoride, sulphate, chloride and nitrate are all within permissible limits. The Dissolved Oxygen lies within the acceptable range.