Response of Hydrogeochemical Variables and Heavy Metals to Flooding in Surface Water of Jia Bharali River, India
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63635/mrj.v2i1.252Keywords:
Hydrogeochemistry, Flooding, Surface water, Heavy metal, Pollution indicesAbstract
As compared to groundwater, surface water bodies are more prone to degradation due to their direct exposure to environmental contaminants. The present study aims to conduct an in-depth hydrogeochemical evaluation of surface water of Jia Bharali River, a significant tributary of Brahmaputra River in northeastern India, in response to flooding. Twelve sampling sites were selected along the entire river stretch within the Assam plain during pre-flood and post-flood periods of 2024 and they were analysed for 21 physicochemical parameters, including major cations, anions, and heavy metals. Various pollution indices employed for heavy metals showed low level of pollution for both pre-flood and post-flood seasons. Multivariate statistical methods were employed to identify water quality similarities and dissimilarities across sites and their possible sources of contamination. The total hardness (TH) content was found to be high across the sampling sites during both seasons. The trilinear piper plot diagram indicated that the river water is dominated by Ca2+-Mg2+-HCO3- type. The Gibbs plot further revealed that hydrogeochemistry is primarily governed by rock-water interaction. The overall water quality of Jia Bharali River is appropriate for its usage during both seasons; however, proper monitoring and management measures need to be adopted to ensure sustainable and safe use of the Jia Bharali River, especially after flood events. It will help to mitigate the potential risks of pollutants to human health and the overall river ecosystem posed by floodwater.
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