Assessment of groundwater quality for drinking purposes using water quality index in volcanic rock areas of Axum, Northern Ethiopia

Groundwater quality in the volcanic rock areas of Axum, Northern Ethiopia, is significantly compromised for drinking purposes, with 24% classified as excellent and only 44% as good according to the Water Quality Index (WQI). The study reveals that groundwater chemistry is primarily influenced by calcite, dolomite, gypsum, fluorite, and halite dissolution, along with ion exchange processes. Several critical parameters, including electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, and trace metals, often exceed WHO permissible limits, indicating severe pollution threats. Hydrogeochemical evolution analysis identified dominant water facies such as Ca–Mg–Na–HCO3 and Mg–Ca–HCO3, with anthropogenic influences contributing to water chemistry degradation. The research underscores the urgent need for continuous monitoring and effective management strategies to safeguard drinking water quality in this region.

Abadi, H. T., Asresie, T., Mihretu, A., & Gebrehiwot, W. (2025). Assessment of groundwater quality for drinking purposes using water quality index in volcanic rock areas of Axum, Northern Ethiopia. Applied Water Science, 15(9). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13201-025-02564-5