Assessing Seasonal Variations and Anthropogenic Stresses in Water Quality Parameters of Wetlands in Aligarh District

Freshwater ecosystems are vital resources, yet they are increasingly threatened by anthropogenic pressures such as urbanization, industrialization, and agricultural runoff. This study assesses the spatio-temporal variations in the water quality of several key wetlands in the Aligarh district to determine the impact of these human-induced factors. Water samples were collected from multiple sites across six different wetlands during the pre-monsoon (April) and post-monsoon (November) seasons. Twelve physico-chemical parameters, including pH, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Turbidity, and Total Hardness, were analyzed. A Water Quality Index (WQI) was calculated using a weighted arithmetic method to provide a comprehensive assessment of water quality, and the results were visualized using spatial interpolation maps. The findings reveal that the water quality in the studied wetlands is significantly degraded, with WQI values classifying the water as "poor," "very poor," and in some cases, "unsuitable for drinking." Significant seasonal variations were observed; some wetlands showed an improvement in water quality post-monsoon, likely due to the dilution effect of rainwater, while others showed further deterioration, indicating pollution from surface runoff. The analysis consistently points to anthropogenic activities as the primary driver of water quality decline. The study concludes that the wetlands of Aligarh district are under severe ecological stress, posing a threat to aquatic biodiversity and ecosystem sustainability. These findings underscore the urgent need for implementing robust management strategies and mitigation measures to protect these critical freshwater habitats from further degradation