Abstract
This study evaluated the extent of physical, chemical and microbiological contamination in ground water of Malir River catchment area. Underground water samples were collected from 10 different locations of the catchment area including tributaries of Malir River
during pre and postmoonsoon seasons, 2004. The samples were analysed for pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), total suspended solids
(TSS), alkalinity, BOD5 , Chloride, COD, hardness, nitrate and phosphates along with the organisms of public health importance. The
avearge pH values ranged from neutral to alkaline (6.8-7.5), TDS 350-1322 and TSS 20-95 mg/l. The average concentration of
chloride was not much as compared to WHO guide lines. The average concentration of BOD5 (23.50-25.50 mg/l) and COD (529-
532mg/l) represents the organic and inorganic contamination of ground water. The concentration of nitrate and phosphates was not
much alarming however, their continuous accumulation poses serious health implications. This could possibly be due to indiscriminate
use of inorganic fertilizers as well as the uncontrolled dumping of domestic wastewater generated by the rural communities. It is quiet
alarming that none of the water sample was fit for human consumption from the public health point of view. The study reveals that a
more intensive survey should be undertaken to determine the possible sources of contamination of ground water aquifers of Malir
River catchment area so as to uplift the environmental health and to protect ground water reserves from contamination on a logical
long-term basis.