Hydrogeologic Studies in Rural Bangladesh
04/22/2008
Over the inter-term break Dr. Chowdhury spent a month collecting water samples in southwestern Bangladesh. Contamination by arsenic, salinization in coastal areas, and other problems threaten the vital groundwater resources upon which the populous depend for their most basic needs. Travel in this remote area is challenging, and Dr. Chowdhury had to rely on some unusual modes of transportation. Special permission was also required to carry his samples, which must remain sealed until analyzed, through United States Customs. The water samples for this international study will be analyzed in the New Paltz Hydrogeology Laboratory by Geology and EGS students.
Dr. Chowdhury collects water samples from a shallow pumped well, which is vulnerable from contamination by nearby surface water.
Bottling samples for transport to the New Paltz Hydrogeology Laboratory where they will be analyzed.
Transportation included travel by cycle rickshaw.
Dr. Chowdhury, cap in lieu of helmet, rides third on the pylon seat of a 100 cc Hero Honda motorcycle.