Abstract
Groundwater is a vital resource for drinking, agriculture, and industry, particularly in rapidly urbanizing areas like Rajahmundry, where increasing industrial activities, agricultural runoff, and improper waste disposal have heightened contamination risks. This study assesses groundwater pollution vulnerability in Rajahmundry using the GOD method, a hydrogeological approach that evaluates groundwater occurrence (G), overlying lithology (O), and depth to the water table (D) to determine the susceptibility of groundwater to pollution. Ten sampling locations were strategically selected across different land-use zones, including industrial, residential, agricultural, and commercial areas, to provide a comprehensive assessment. The analysis considered environmental factors such as industrial effluents, agricultural chemicals, waste disposal sites, and proximity to water bodies. The results revealed varying degrees of vulnerability, with locations having shallow water tables and highly permeable soil formations showing higher susceptibility to contamination, while areas with deeper water tables and less permeable geological layers exhibited lower vulnerability. The study highlights the urgent need for effective groundwater management strategies to mitigate contamination risks. Key recommendations include regular groundwater monitoring, stricter enforcement of waste disposal regulations, sustainable agricultural practices, and artificial groundwater recharge techniques such as rainwater harvesting. Additionally, public awareness campaigns and policy interventions are necessary to promote responsible groundwater usage and pollution prevention. The findings of this study provide critical insights for urban planners, environmental agencies, and policymakers, enabling them to implement targeted conservation measures and ensure the sustainable management of groundwater resources. By adopting proactive strategies, Rajahmundry can enhance groundwater protection, reduce contamination risks, and secure safe water resources for future generations.