Hydrochemical composition and origin of surface water and groundwater in the Matahara area, Ethiopia

The composition of different surface water and groundwater constituents of the Matahara region (Ethiopia) were studied to understand their hydrochemical sources. Potential hydrochemical origins of different water sources were identified based on ionic indices and standard Piper plots. The findings indicate that pH, electrical conductivity, and concentrations of some major ions (Na⁺, HCO₃ ⁻, Cl⁻, SO₄ ²⁻) were higher in factory waste, groundwater, hot springs, and Lake Basaka than those in irrigation and drainage waters. Groundwater in the study area had a different chemical composition than surface water, which was likely its recharging source. Spring and lake waters acquired characteristics similar to marine water based on their hydrochemical facies and evolution. This study indicates that the hydrochemistry of groundwater, spring water, and lake water have recently been influenced by anthropogenic pollution.