Hydrogeophysics and Numerical Solute Transport Modelling Techniques for Environmental Impact Assessment

The present study is carried out to assess the impact of upcoming Aluminium industry impact on groundwater quality. Hydrogeological, electrical resistivity tomography and numerical solute transport modelling techniques are deployed to understand aquifer nature and anticipated transport of contaminants impact on groundwater quality from the proposed red mud pond in the Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The hydrogeological results revealed that the area possesses low infiltration rate that is range from 1.26 to 5.68 cm/h with moderated hydraulic conductivity range from 3.5 to 5.6 m/day. The groundwater quality is in good health within the range of drinking water standards of WHO/BIS. Geophysical data analysis revealed that weathered zone thickness range from 10 to 25 m from the surface to subsurface then it is underlain by fissured/fracture layer of 5–10 m thick followed by hard rock. The numerical solute transport modelling predicted that there would not be any significant increase in TDS concentration for next 50 years outside of the upcoming red mud pond under the observed hydrogeological conditions of the year 2009 and the range of assumed dynamic loading of pollution in terms of TDS. The techniques can be utilized to select the suitable site for waste disposals and impact assessment of existing contaminant source on groundwater.