Assessing Downstream Heavy Metal Contamination and Risks in the Godavari River Basin: Implications for Irrigation and Water Quality Management

Heavy metal contamination from sources such as irrigation and industrial activities poses critical challenges to water quality, ecosystem health, and public safety in river systems. This study evaluates the characteristics of heavy metal pollution in the Godavari River basin between Polavaram and Dowleswaram in Andhra Pradesh, India, by focusing on irrigation and water management implications. Thirteen heavy metals aluminum, arsenic, boron, cadmium, copper, fluoride, iron, lead, manganese, mercury, selenium, tin, and zinc were detected. At Tadipudi, selenium was detected at the highest concentration, i.e., 439.2 mg/L. However, boron has the highest concentration near Dowleswaram (57.7 mg/L). Pollution characteristics were assessed using the ambient water quality criteria, modified degree of contamination, ecological potential risk index, pollution index, pollution load index, and health risk index. A prominent decreasing trend in heavy metal concentration was observed from upstream to downstream areas of the Godavari River, with arsenic, mercury, cadmium, and lead posing significant health risks. The findings emphasize the need for effective strategies to manage heavy metal contamination in the Godavari River by ensuring sustainable irrigation practices and water quality management for this critical region.