GEOGRAPHICAL STUDY OF WATER QUALITY INDEX OF PRAKASHA BARRAGE ON TAPI RIVER IN NANDURBAR DISTRICT

Abstract

Water is crucial for sustaining ecosystems and various economic sectors, yet its availability and quality are increasingly threatened by anthropogenic activities. This study evaluates the water quality at Prakasha Barrage in Nandurbar District, Maharashtra, India, using the Water Quality Index (WQI) method to assess its suitability for human consumption and other uses. The research investigates seasonal variations in water quality parameters by systematically collecting water samples across different seasons, followed by analytical testing of key physico-chemical attributes such as pH, hardness, sulfates, nitrates, total alkalinity, total dissolved solids (TDS), chlorides, and iron. Utilizing the Weighted Arithmetic Water Quality Index Method, the study calculates WQI values and classifies water quality from "Excellent" to "Unsuitable for Drinking." Results indicate that the WQI fluctuates with seasonal changes, with values of 64.83, 57.24, and 64.83 for Winter, Monsoon, and Summer, respectively, reflecting a range between "Slightly Polluted" and "Moderately Polluted." Moreover, a correlation analysis among the physico-chemical parameters reveals critical interdependencies, suggesting that fluctuations in one parameter can significantly influence others. The findings emphasize the need for consistent monitoring and management of water quality to ensure its safety and fitness for use, particularly in agricultural and drinking applications. This study contributes to the broader discourse on water resource management and offers a framework for evaluating quality standards through the WQI, highlighting its implications for environmental policy and public health in the region.