Institute of Geology, Dagestan Scientific Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Makhachkala, Russia:

L. M. Kurbanova, Researcher, lilysha1964@mail.ru
M. M. Melikov, Researcher
A. Sh. Guseinova, Junior Researcher

In focus is the problem connected with the arsenic contamination of the North Dagestan artesian basin (NDAB) being the single drink water source in the north of Dagestan. Water resources management in accordance with the UNO classification is described. It is highlighted that ground, mostly artesian, water ensures 65% of domestic water supply of population in the Republic of Dagestan. Arsenic belongs in the first hazard class of highly toxic contaminants, which explains the increased concern connected with its content in drink water. Currently, there is no simple and unique explanation of arsenic contamination. The analysis of water in 281 wells has discovered above-standard arsenic content in 226 wells (80%). The highest arsenic content is found in the north-east of the basin. The monitoring results on arsenic contamination of groundwater are given for 2002 and 2013. The histogram of arsenic content in NDAB is presented in terms of MAC units. According to the preliminary data, genesis of arsenic is connected with the migration of arsenic compounds from Pliocene–Pleistocene sandy–clayey sedimentations. The uncontrolled operation of the basin during many years, with violation of geological, sanitary and ecological norms has aggravated processes of arsenic contamination. The authors point at the necessity of more detailed research into causes of arsenic contamination of the artesian basin water.

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