Spatio-temporal variation of WQI, scaling and corrosion indices, and principal component analysis in rural areas of Marand, Iran

Providing safe drinking water, particularly in rural areas and isolated places, has the highest priorities in communities. The present study was aimed to investigate water quality, including physicochemical, corrosion and scaling properties, in rural areas. Samples were collected from 9 villages in Marand, northwest of Iran, both in spring and summer seasons. Principal component statistical analysis (PCA) along with water quality index (WQI) was used to better interpret the obtained results. The results indicated that some physicochemical parameters were outside the range recommended by WHO standards. More than 50% of the samples were corrosive both in summer and spring seasons. It is observed in some areas that temporal variation can change water quality; furthermore, samples taken in summer exhibit poor quality when compared to spring. It can be suggested that in order to provide safe drinking water, authorities, through monitoring and supervisory actions, should regularly evaluate water quality. [Display omitted] •Groundwater quality in rural areas is studied using GIS based WQI.•In the study area WQI affected by temporal variation.•More than 50% of water resource were revealed corrosive nature.•Four main components was determined by PCA.•Component 2 represented nonpoint contamination from agricultural areas.