Abstract

Groundwater contamination by elevated arsenic concentrations has been reported in An Giang Province since the 2000s. This study aimed to assess the current status of groundwater use in this As-risk area through an integrated socio-hydrogeological approach that examined groundwater use patterns, user perceptions, and hydrochemical conditions. Household surveys and well investigations were conducted in April 2025, covering 85 households and 80 wells. Structured interviews were combined with field measurements of pH, redox potential, and electrical conductivity to identify the main drivers of groundwater use and evaluate associated water quality risks. The results showed that aquaculture was the dominant groundwater-consuming activity, accounting for nearly 88% of total abstraction, with most water extracted from medium-depth wells (30–60 m). Although groundwater was used only marginally for drinking purposes (0.4% of total use), around 27% of households still depended on it for domestic activities. Respondents most frequently identified iron and salinity as water quality concerns, whereas awareness of arsenic risk remained very limited, despite earlier evidence of As contamination in the region. Measured redox pH, and Electrical conductivity values suggest groundwater conditions may be favorable for As mobilization, especially in shallow wells used for irrigation. Infrastructure limitations, affordability, and perceived reliability were identified as key drivers of continued groundwater use, even among households with access to piped water. However, 88.6% of respondents expressed a preference for piped water supply, indicating a strong willingness to shift away from groundwater use if reliable alternatives are available. These findings underscore the need for targeted infrastructure investment, strengthened groundwater quality monitoring, and community engagement to reduce exposure risks and promote sustainable groundwater management in As-affected areas.