Assessment of Seasonal Variations of Hydrochemistry of Water Sources in and around Bhopal

Abstract

The assessment of seasonal variations in hydrochemistry is crucial for understanding the impact of natural and anthropogenic factors on water quality. This study investigates the hydrochemical characteristics of various water sources in and around Bhopal, focusing on both surface and groundwater systems over a one-year period. Physicochemical parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, major ions (Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, Kand#8314;, Cland#8315;, SO42-, HCO3-), and nutrient levels (NO3-) were analyzed to evaluate spatial and temporal variations in water quality. Biological oxygen demand and chemical oxygen demand were also checked to assess the pollution caused by organic and inorganic oxydizable matter. The total hardness and total alkalinity were evaluated to know potability status of water. The heavy metals like Fe and Mn were analysed to find their impact and F- was examined also to check threat of health issues caused by it. The total dissolved solids and conductivity were determined to find ionic chemistry of water sources. All sixteen parameters were determined according to APHA s (American Public Health Association) 23rd edition (2017). The results obtained were compared with permissible values given by the World Health Organisation (WHO 2022, IVth edition, I and II addenda) and Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS-10500:2012, reaffirmed in February 2021). The research employs multivariate statistical techniques, hydrochemical facies classification, and geospatial mapping to identify seasonal trends and potential contamination sources. The results reveal significant fluctuations in hydrochemical parameters between pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon seasons, influenced by factors such as precipitation, surface runoff, agricultural activities, and industrial discharge. Water quality indices (WQI) and hydrogeochemical modeling further aid in assessing the suitability of water for drinking and irrigation purposes. newline