Assessment of Ornamental Nursery Wastewater Characteristics and Its Impact on Urban Drainage Water Quality in Nagpur Region

Abstract – The study evaluates the characteristics of wastewater generated from ornamental nurseries in the Nagpur region and its influence on adjacent urban drainage systems, particularly nalas. Ornamental nurseries employ extensive use of fertilizers, pesticides, and plant growth enhancers that enter the wastewater stream during routine horticultural operations. The research aims to characterize the physico-chemical and biological profile of the wastewater and determine its deviation from acceptable environmental standards. Sampling and analysis were conducted over a two-month period using APHA guidelines. The results revealed significant exceedance in BOD, COD, nutrients (NPK), and microbial contamination, suggesting high environmental risk. The impact on nala water quality was substantial, with measurable degradation in downstream sections. The study calls for immediate attention from civil and environmental engineers to implement decentralized, sustainable water treatment systems near nurseries. This investigation provides a unique contribution to the emerging field of horticultural wastewater management in urban environments. Key Words: ornamental nursery, wastewater, nala, urban water quality, phytochemicals, pollutants.