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VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 (2025)
Assessment of spatial variation in physical and chemical water quality parameters of the Murna River
Authors
Akshita Shrivastava
Abstract
The present study aimed to evaluate the
spatial variation in water quality of the Murna River by analyzing key physical
and chemical parameters across multiple sampling sites. Water quality is a
critical determinant of aquatic ecosystem health, influencing biodiversity,
human use, and ecological sustainability. Sampling was conducted at five
representative sites along the river, spanning upstream, midstream, and
downstream locations, over a three-month period during the post-monsoon season.
Parameters measured included temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), electrical
conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity, biochemical oxygen
demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), nitrate, phosphate, and heavy metal
concentrations (iron, lead, and cadmium). Standard analytical methods were
employed to ensure accuracy and comparability of results. The analysis revealed
significant spatial variations in water quality parameters. Upstream sites
generally exhibited lower turbidity (6–12 NTU), higher DO levels (7.8–8.5
mg/L), and lower concentrations of nitrates (1.2–2.0 mg/L) and heavy metals,
indicating relatively unpolluted conditions. Midstream sites showed moderate
increases in EC (350–420 µS/cm) and BOD (3.5–4.2 mg/L), reflecting
anthropogenic influences from nearby settlements. Downstream locations
displayed elevated TDS (450–520 mg/L), turbidity (18–24 NTU), BOD (5.0–6.3
mg/L), and trace heavy metals, suggesting cumulative impacts from agricultural
runoff, industrial discharge, and urban effluents. pH values remained within
neutral to slightly alkaline range (7.2–7.9) across all sites, indicating
stable buffering capacity. The findings indicate that the Murna River
experiences progressive water quality deterioration from upstream to
downstream, emphasizing the need for targeted pollution management strategies.
Maintaining water quality in upstream regions is critical for mitigating
downstream contamination and preserving aquatic biodiversity. The study
provides a comprehensive baseline assessment of the river’s physicochemical
status, which can inform future monitoring, environmental planning, and
conservation efforts.
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Pages:13-17
How to cite this article:
Akshita Shrivastava "Assessment of spatial variation in physical and chemical water quality parameters of the Murna River". World Journal of Advanced Science, Vol 1, Issue 1, 2025, Pages 13-17
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