Dynamics of Hydrochemical Parameters Across Seasonal Regimes in Chankapur and Ozarkhed Dam Ecosystems

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive tri-seasonal assessment of hydrochemical parameters in two prominent multipurpose reservoirs Chankapur and Ozarkhed Dams located in Nashik District, Maharashtra. Spanning pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon phases of the hydrological year 2023–24, the investigation evaluated 25 key physicochemical variables, including temperature, pH, EC, DO, nutrient concentrations, and trace metals. In- situ measurements and laboratory analyses were conducted in adherence to APHA (2017) protocols, and data interpretation employed a suite of statistical tools such as descriptive analysis, Pearson correlation, Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA).