Understanding Water Pollution in the Kelani River Basin: A Comprehensive Literature Review on Causes, Ecological Impact, and Management Strategies

A growing body of research indicates that water pollution affects aquatic ecosystems negatively and is a widespread problem. This research focuses on the Kelani River basin in Sri Lanka since there are serious problems with water pollution there, despite the fact that contamination impacts many water bodies globally. This research primarily relies on secondary data collection methods, including research articles, journals, publications, annual reports, and official internet sources. The collected secondary data underwent qualitative analysis, which subsequently contributed to the presentation of descriptive findings in this study. Through the research, the researcher identified two main causes of water contamination in the Kelani River basin: point sources and non-point sources. Over 9,000 industrial establishments contribute significantly to pollution. Additionally, hydropower construction affects 30% of the river's course. Furthermore, the Kelani River basin holds ecological significance as a habitat for numerous endangered and endemic species, including critically endangered and narrow-range endemics such as Balanocarpus kitulgalensis, Vetica luwesiana, Pethia bandula, and Systomus asoka. Recognizing the urgency of water conservation, we propose comprehensive strategies: stringent regulations, sustainable land use, effective waste management, critical ecosystem protection and restoration, and community engagement. Furthermore, maintaining the ecological integrity of the Kelani River and its benefits to human well-being requires tackling both point and non-point causes of pollution.