Hzard and risk assessment of pollution on the groundwater resources and residents’ health of Salfit District, Palestine

Study region: The study area is the Salfit District which is located in the northern part of the West Bank of Palestine. This district is located on the outcrops and recharge areas of the karstified dolomitic limestone aquifers of the study area. Study focus: As these aquifers are the main sources of drinking water for the residents of the district, this paper aims at evaluating groundwater pollution and assessing the vulnerability, hazards and risks of pollution on groundwater resources and on the residents’ health. New hydrological insights for the region: There are many pollutants in the Salfit's aquifer recharge area and thus percolating and polluting the groundwater aquifers. Using a Durov diagram, the sources of water proved to be polluted and, therefore, the health of the residents of Salfit District is directly threatened. A hazard map was developed to classify all polluting activities in the district. Microbiological analysis of the drinking water revealed higher levels of total and fecal Coliforms. The high incidence rate of water related diseases is an indication of the drinking water pollution. This paper contains research findings and policy recommendations to help Salfit District alleviate health and pollution problems associated with this vital resource of groundwater. In addition, Salfit governorate is encouraged to begin addressing the institutional issues and improving public awareness