A Preliminary approach on the assessment of Heavy Metal contamination in Water, Sediments and Fishes from Pamba River Basin, Pathanamthitta, Kerala, South India

The Heavy metals, encompass under the emerging environmental contaminant categorization, with density greater than 4.5g/cm 3. Beyond their highly toxic nature, they manifest non-degradable disposition. The river Pamba is the third longest river in Kerala, (southern Ganga). One of the most important vital riverine systems, as a source of food, water and pilgrim activities. The river is peculiarized, because one of the famous pilgrimage centres in south India, the Sabarimala is located on the bank of this river. The present study involves field study and laboratory analysis for the distribution and abundance of heavy metals (Cd, Pb and Hg) in water, sediment and fish species from the river basin. From the study it is evident that the sediment sample, the lead contamination was much more than the admissible level, whereas levels of Cadmium and Mercury was below detectable level both in water and sediment samples. Fish organs like muscle and liver also shows toxic level of Lead. From the study, it can be concluded that river Pamba is polluted with heavy metal like Lead mainly due to anthropogenic activities. Analysis of different season’s samples may reveal the correct picture of the riverine pollution with heavy metals.