Comparative Evaluation of Heavy Metals in Surface Water from Satranga Dam, Korba, Chhattisgarh, India

The present study investigates the concentrations of selected heavy metals in surface water from the Satranga Dam, located in the industrially active Korba district of Chhattisgarh, India. Surface water samples were collected from three locations (SW1, SW2, SW3) and analyzed for heavy metals including lead (Pb), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), barium (Ba), and aluminum (Al). The analysis revealed that most metal concentrations were within permissible limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO, 1996). However, nickel levels at SW1 and SW3 slightly exceeded the guideline value of 0.1 mg/L, indicating potential ecological and health risks. Chromium, barium, and aluminum were below detection limits in all samples. The findings underscore the influence of industrial and anthropogenic activities on water quality and highlight the need for regular monitoring and effective waste management strategies to protect aquatic ecosystems and public health.