Selective electrodialysis technology: A viable solution to water quality challenges in Sri Lankan community-based organizations

Safe drinking water is essential for public health, especially in rural communities where access to reliable water sources is limited. Ensuring water quality is critical to preventing waterborne diseases and supporting sustainable development. Community-based organizations (CBOs) are vital in managing rural water needs, yet they face significant groundwater quality issues. This study analyzed water quality parameters, revealing variability in Water Quality Index (WQI) classifications, which ranged from excellent to unsuitable, necessitating targeted treatment solutions. Principal component analysis (PCA) identified three key groundwater issues: brackish water with high fluoride, turbid water, and saline water. Among the treatment options, selective electrodialysis (SED) proved most effective for fluoride-enriched brackish groundwater. Over a 12 month s period, SED consistently met Sri Lankan drinking water standards, overcoming challenges such as membrane fouling. This technology offers a sustainable solution for improving groundwater quality in CBOs, thereby enhancing public health and ensuring safe drinking water in rural Sri Lanka. • Community-based organizations (CBOs) in Sri Lanka are required to implement water treatment mechanisms immediately. • Brackish groundwater with elevated fluoride issue is a sever issue for CBOs in Sri Lanka • Selective electrodialysis is a best option for groundwater treatment in Sri Lanka areas of Sri Lanka prone to chronic kidney disease of uncertain etiology (CKDu).