RESUMO
This study focuses on assessing hydrochemical characteristics and non-carcinogenic health risks associated with fluoride contamination in groundwater within the Palacode and Pennagaram taluks of Dharmapuri district. The presence of fluoride in drinking water is a significant concern due to its potential health impacts on both adults and children. We collected a total of 158 groundwater samples during both the summer (SUM) and monsoon (MON) seasons in 2021 to evaluate the suitability of water for drinking purposes in this region. During the SUM season, groundwater exhibits alkaline characteristics with a pH range of 6.70 to 8.73 and a mean value of 7.43, while the MON season falls within the neutral pH range with values ranging from 6.60 to 7.60 and a mean of 7.00. Hydrogeochemical analysis reveals that fluoride concentrations during the SUM season range from 0.13 to 2.7 mg/L, with a mean of 0.82 mg/L, whereas the MON season exhibits concentrations ranging from 0.08 to 1.6 mg/L, with a mean of 0.5 mg/L. Spatial distribution analysis indicates a gradual increase in fluoride concentrations from the northeast to the central and southern parts of the study area during both seasons. Residents in these areas have been exposed to high fluoride levels for an extended period, leading to health issues related to fluorosis. Our hydrogeochemical analysis attributes fluoride dominance to the Cl--SO42- water type in both seasons. Furthermore, the relationship between fluoride and pH, HCO3-, Ca2+, and Na+ suggests the influence of geological factors in fluoride dissolution under alkaline conditions, while a reverse cation exchange process and increasing calcium concentration inhibit fluoride concentration. Saturation indices indicate that the unsaturated state of gypsum dissolution contributes to elevated fluoride levels in groundwater. Additionally, Gibbs plots highlight rock-water interactions as a significant factor influencing groundwater chemistry in the study area. Based on our hazard quotient (HQ) investigation, children are at a higher risk during both seasons compared to adults, with the central and northern regions showing alarming HQ values. These findings underscore the urgent need for enhanced groundwater quality monitoring and a comprehensive assessment of health risks, providing valuable insights for groundwater safety management in vulnerable areas of this region.