Comprehensive Risk Analysis of Physicochemical Parameters through WQI and Temporal Variation in Sharda Canal's Surface Water, Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

The study aimed to evaluate the ecological status of Sharda Canal, a major irrigation and domestic water supply source in U.P., India. Based on land use type and potential pollution sources, ten survey sites were selected from the Sharda Canal Kheri Branch having a length of 258.80 km. The analysis of the quality of water studied for pH, DO, COD, BOD, Nitrates, Sulphates, TDS, TSS, hardness, alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium were calculated as different components. The weighted arithmetic index method was applied to evaluate WQI. As a result, the pollutant load was significantly different between the locations. On the other hand, the water quality index at Sharda Barrage in Lakhimpur Kheri was 110.29. At the same time, it stood at 128 on Bakshi ka talab distributary in Lucknow which is from upstream to downstream. The observed high values of TDS, COD, sulfates, and nitrates were indicative of the likely presence of pollutants that can have a severe influence on local water quality and aquatic ecology. In summary, the outcomes of this assessment have drawn vivid and clearer boundaries to register an actual integrated action which is urgently needed otherwise premature water quality deterioration in the Sharda Canal will be a fact. Hence, the water quality variables that work in Sharda Canal have been assessed by a considerable amount of WQI, an integrated physicochemical appraisal tool to accomplish a precise comprehension. These may include improving industrial and agricultural regulations and practices, increasing treatment plant efficiency, raising awareness among public officials and the general public, and reducing point-source pollution.