Narmada River's water quality assessment insights from research studies

The Narmada River, one of the largest west-flowing rivers in India. The river originates from the Maikal ranges in Madhya Pradesh and flows through the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat before immersing into the Arabian Sea. The river plays a crucial role in the socio-economic development of this region, and its water is used for drinking, irrigation, and industrial purposes. However, the water quality of the Narmada River has been a matter of concern for several years. In this article, we will look at the findings of three research studies that assess the water quality of the Narmada River.

Water Quality Assessment of Narmada River Along Different Topographical Regions of Central India

The study, published in the International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, assessed the water quality of the Narmada River along different topographical regions of central India. The researchers collected water samples from seven different locations along the river and analyzed them for various physicochemical and microbiological parameters. The results of the study showed that the water quality of the river was poor. That is to say, there were with high levels of total dissolved solids, total suspended solids, and coliform bacteria. The study suggested that the poor water quality of the river could be attributed to the discharge of untreated domestic and industrial effluents into the river.

Assessment of Heavy Metal Contamination in Water and Sediments of Narmada River

Another study, published in the International Journal of Scientific Research, assessed the heavy metal contamination in the water and sediments of the Narmada River. The researchers collected water and sediment samples from five different locations along the river and analyzed them for various heavy metals. The results of the study showed that the water and sediments of the river were contaminated with heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and chromium. The study suggested that the heavy metal contamination in the river could be attributed to the discharge of untreated industrial effluents into the river.

Spatial and Temporal Variations in Water Quality of the Narmada River

The third study, published in the Journal of Environmental Science and Pollution Research, assessed the spatial and temporal variations in the water quality of the Narmada River. The researchers collected water samples from ten different locations along the river and analyzed them for various physicochemical and microbiological parameters. The results of the study showed that the water quality of the river varied spatially and temporally. The study suggested that the poor water quality of the river could be attributed to the discharge of untreated domestic and industrial effluents into the river, as well as agricultural runoff.

Conclusion

The findings of these studies highlight the poor water quality of the Narmada River and the urgent need for measures to improve it. The discharge of untreated domestic and industrial effluents into the river and agricultural runoff are major contributors to water pollution. The government and other stakeholders must take immediate steps to address the issue and ensure that the river's water quality is restored to safe levels.

Keep reading

• The Narmada Valley Development Project: A Never-Ending Controversy
• Why are tribals against Basania Dam on Narmada in MP?
• Water scarcity challenges climate and development goals

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