Assessment of Water Quality in Amgaon’s Lakes: Implications for Beautification and Recreation

Abstract

Evaluation of water quality of three lakes viz.  Matabodi, Padampur and  Risama in Amgaon town, Gondia district, Maharashtra, India under the 'Amrut Sarovar' scheme, focusing on their suitability for beautification and recreational purposes.The lakes exhibit compromised water quality due to various contaminants. The presence of free ammonia found to be 3.9 to 4.5 mg/L which exceeds permissible limits as defined by CPCB standards. The lakes also show contamination with total coliforms and fecal coliforms. Phytoplankton analysis reveals the prevalence of cyanobacteria species, which can produce harmful toxins. The phytoplankton diversity index suggests moderately polluted waters. The Shannon Wiener Diversity Index of 1.4 to 2.1 and Palmer Pollution Index of 14, 7 and 6 indicating mildly to moderately polluted water. Zooplankton assessment shows the presence of rotifers and daphnia indicating certain ecological disturbances. Further efforts are required to restore and maintain the water quality of these lakes for beautification and recreation.