Spatial Heterogeneity of Water Quality Parameters Across a Six-Site Longitudinal Gradient in the Nunia River, Eastern India
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31305/rrijm.2025.v10.n1.043Keywords:
Nunia River, Asansol-Raniganj, water quality, seasonal variation, ionic pollution, nutrient pollutionAbstract
River pollution in India is intensifying across rapidly urbanising regions, with small tributaries such as the Nunia River exhibiting heightened vulnerability to wastewater inputs. This study analysed 18 physicochemical parameters across 6 sites in 2021 to characterise spatial and seasonal hydrochemical gradients. Upstream waters showed relatively good quality, with near-neutral pH (~7.0), low total dissolved solids (TDS) (<300 mg/L), and moderate nutrients. In contrast, midstream urban sections recorded marked increases in ionic and nutrient loads, with electric conductivity (EC) frequently exceeding 1000 µS/cm and nitrate rising above 40 mg/L, accompanied by reduced dissolved oxygen (DO) <3.5 mg/L. Monsoon flows produced dilution-driven reductions in several parameters, whereas summer and winter showed higher solute concentrations. Statistical tests indicated significant seasonal variation in ionic parameters (TDS, EC, chloride, alkalinity, and sodium), whereas nutrients and organic pollutants [nitrate, phosphate, chemical oxygen demand (COD), and biological oxygen demand (BOD)] showed no significant seasonal separation. Correlation patterns revealed strong clustering among major ions and pronounced negative relationships between DO and organic pollution indicators. Overall, the river displayed a clear upstream-to-downstream deterioration linked to continuous domestic and urban wastewater discharge, highlighting the need for improved wastewater management and regular monitoring.
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