Hydro-stratigraphy, Aquifer Characterization and Physiochemical Analysis of District Dera Ghazi Khan Punjab, Pakistan.

The study area is located in the arid section of Punjab province, Pakistan. The accessibility of freshwater is the main problem in this zone. The area is approximately flat and there are alluvial deposits up to 800 m. Groundwater is not fit for health because of its salinity. Hence, it is essential to mark the transformation between fresh water and saltwater. The saltwater areas are between 10 and 30 m deep. Low resistance values help identify salt flats and clay-rich deposits that are visible on resistivity maps. The resistivity model also shows the freshwater areas of the study zone. After linking all resistivity data and maps, it is determined that the south portion of the area has a freshwater aquifer, especially at the penetration of 200 m. At this depth quality of water is very good excluding a slightly saline in some areas. The margin between salty and fresh water is set to no degree. This is dependent upon recharge and usage of an aquifer. However, physio-chemical analysis of the water samples in the laboratory shows the conditions of the aquifer in DG Khan City. Groundwater pollution poses a severe threat to the city's residents. Heavy metals such as arsenic are found in excessive amounts in water samples and are outside the limits of the WHO and NDWQS. Just two out of 10 samples; Sample # 6 (Basti Kaheeri, DG Khan) and Sample # 10 (in the vicinity of DG Khan Airport alongside Sakhi Sarwar Road) are only within limits for safe drinking water. The results of this research are valued for groundwater management and the installation of tubular wells in freshwater areas for household and irrigation purposes.