ABSTRACT
This study assesses the physicochemical parameters of surface water in the Meghna River at Bhairab Bazar, Kishorganj district, focusing on the Water Quality Index (WQI) to evaluate water pollution levels and overall water quality suitability for various uses. Water samples were collected seasonally from three distinct locations between February and July 2022 to analyze the distribution of parameters including temperature, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), hardness, and alkalinity during both dry and wet seasons. Mean TDS values were recorded at 239.67 ± 5.033 ppm in the dry season and 180 ± 9.165 ppm in the wet season, both of which fall below the Asian Development Bank’s standard limit of 400 ppm for aquaculture. Statistical analysis demonstrated significant differences in TDS (p < 0.05) as well as strong correlations for EC and DO (p < 0.01) between seasons. The WQI results indicate that the river water is heavily polluted and classified as unsuitable for drinking, with values exceeding 300 in both seasons. These findings suggest a degradation in water quality, likely attributable to anthropogenic activities, particularly the direct discharge of domestic effluents. The study highlights the urgent need for effective management strategies and continuous monitoring to mitigate further deterioration of the river’s water quality.
Key words: Water quality index, physico-chemical parameters, pollution, Meghna river
Introduction
The Meghna River is one of the most important rivers in Bangladesh, playing a crucial role in irrigation, fishing, transportation, recreation, and various other activities. However, water quality in the Meghna River is continually changing due to the release of inadequately treated industrial waste containing contaminants and hazardous substances into the water bodies, either directly or indirectly (Ahmed, et al., 2015). As a result, the river is inundated with millions of liters of sewage, household waste, industrial effluents, and agricultural runoff. These pollutants introduce a range of hazardous heavy metals, toxic compounds, pesticides, and various other chemicals from different sectors (Rasel, et al., 2013). Such contamination adversely affects water quality, making it difficult for aquatic species to thrive and posing risks to public health and agricultural activities. Continuous monitoring of pollutant levels in the river is essential to safeguard public health and prevent consumption of contaminated water. The Water Quality Index (WQI) is a highly effective method for evaluating the quality of both surface and groundwater, serving as a valuable tool for policymakers focused on water resource management. Numerous researchers have developed mathematical models and tools to facilitate comprehensive water quality assessments (Brown et al., 1970). Consequently, this study aims to monitor the physicochemical water quality parameters of the Meghna River using the Water Quality Index (WQI) and assess their suitability for supporting aquatic life, including fisheries.
Recent Comments