The hidden impact of seafood processing on coastal aquifers: Hydrogeochemistry and water quality assessment

Seafood processing industries play a crucial role in meeting global food demands; however, their consequences on groundwater quality are a growing concern. The study fills the existing knowledge gap among the shallow aquifers of the Southwest coast of India by conducting a thorough assessment of the hydrogeochemical alterations caused by the release of wastewater and waste by-products related to seafood processing operations. The methodology involves a multi-faceted approach, encompassing field sampling, hydro-chemical modelling, and statistical validation. Depleted DO (0.9-2.4 mg/L), elevated TDS (687-2325 mg/L), EC (890-3120 mu S/cm), TH (332-700 mg/L), BOD(2-6.73 mg/L), COD(9-34.6 mg/L), NH3 (1.51-8.14 mg/L), Fe2+ (1.8-7.6 mg/L) and SO42(8.41-61.6 mg/L) were inferred. Various quality indices of water suggested its unsuitability for drinking and suitability for agricultural purposes. However, the water is corrosive to be used for industries only after proper treatment. Hazard-Index indicates the area is not prone to carcinogenic risk. The study explains the hydrogeochemistry and groundwater suitability with respect to over-exploitation and seafood industrial effluent discharges into nearby water bodies and drains.