Water, which nearly makes up the entire Globe, is the most
basic natural resource and is necessary for life. Therefore, its quality and
distribution play an important role. Riverine system pollution has been a major
problem as it has an impact on the aquatic organisms in the rivers and the
lives that depend on them. The lack of adequate surface water quality
protection measures and poor sanitation practices have made river body
pollution a serious concern. Thenpennai River is one among them where the soil
and water of the river have been polluted due to the disposal of waste. The
main objective of this study is to assess the water quality and to screen the
amount of domestic waste present in the river, which is the major cause of
water pollution. This study analyses the physiochemical parameters of soil and
water due to the dumping of waste. The study also evaluates the amount of
Biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes. Water and soil samples were
collected monthly from two sites (Site 1 and Site 2) between November 2023 and
January 2024. Results obtained from the samples of the Thenpennai River show
elevated variations from the standard values. The significance t-test was
performed. Findings show that the pH levels at both sites remained within WHO
permissible limits, with slight variation observed at Site 1 and stable
readings at Site 2. Elevated Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) were recorded at both
sites, with Site 1 showing higher values. BOD and COD levels at Site 2 remained
within WHO permissible limits with minimal variation, while Site 1 showed
elevated COD and BOD levels exceeding standards. The mean pH value of the soil
sample was 8.15, which is higher than the standard value. Based on statistical
evidence, non-biodegradable waste has been seen as a main cause of pollution
that creates a threat to the ecosystem and may have a major impact on human
health. It has also been determined that the contamination in soil and water
samples is due to organic and inorganic wastes, which result from inappropriate
disposal of waste materials. Therefore, the sample site of the Thenpennai River
is unsuitable for human consumption and for the cultivation of fish. This study
underscores the urgent need for corrective measures to improve water quality
for future sustainability.
Author(s) Details
Abinaya S
PG and Research Department of Zoology, Ethiraj College for Women
(Autonomous), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
L. Shakila
PG and Research Department of Zoology, Ethiraj College for Women
(Autonomous), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Reiana Jenifer S
PG and Research Department of Zoology, Ethiraj College for Women
(Autonomous), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Sowmiya S
PG and Research Department of Zoology, Ethiraj College for Women
(Autonomous), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/rpbs/v8/6436
