Water Quality Assessment in the Bhiwandi-Thane Region, Maharashtra, India

Abstract: Water quality plays an essential role in maintaining human health, agricultural productivity, and ecological balance, especially in regions experiencing rapid industrial and urban development. The Bhiwandi-Thane region of Maharashtra has undergone major changes over the last few decades, with a steady rise in industrial units, power-loom activities, residential clusters, commercial hubs, and transportation networks. While this growth has brought economic advantages, it has also increased pressure on local water bodies. With more industries, a larger population, and expanding settlements, the region now faces growing concerns regarding pollution, wastewater discharge, and untreated sewage entering natural water systems. To understand the depth of this challenge, the present study evaluates the physical, chemical, and microbiological characteristics of both groundwater and surface water sources in the area.