Water Quality Assessment of River Patalganga

The Patalganga River, flowing through the Western Ghats, is an important natural water source for the region. Over the years, its banks have attracted many industries because of the easy availability of raw water. However, rapid industrial growth has led to significant pollution, affecting the river’s water quality. Waste from factories and other human activities has altered its physical, chemical, and biological properties, making it less suitable for various uses. The deterioration of the river is a growing concern, as it directly impacts the people and environment that depend on it. To assess the extent of pollution, river water was tested for various parameters. The analysis showed that several factors, such as turbidity, hardness, color, and PH, Temperature, Clorine Content, Electric Conductivity, were above the recommended safe levels. High turbidity, or cloudiness of water, indicates the presence of suspended particles, making the water difficult to purify. Increased hardness means the water contains excess minerals, which can affect its taste and usability for household chores. The presence of unnatural color suggests contamination from industrial discharge or other pollutants Pollution in the Patalganga River not only affects human health but also disrupts the local ecosystem. Aquatic plants and animals depend on clean water to survive, and the introduction of harmful substances can lead to a decline in fish populations and other wildlife. If the pollution continues to rise, it could permanently damage the river’s biodiversity. Additionally, polluted water can seep into the ground, contaminating wells and underground water sources that many people depend on for drinking and farming. To determine whether the river water is safe for drinking, its quality was compared to the standards set by IS 10500. This standard provides guidelines for safe drinking water in India, ensuring that it does not pose risks to human health. Additionally, WHO (2006) guidelines were referenced where necessary to understand the global recommendations for water safety. The findings suggest that immediate steps are needed to improve the water quality. Key Words: Turbidity, Hardness, pH, Temperature, Electric Conductivity, Chlorine content