Assessment of Physico-Chemical Characteristics of Pond Water in Madhepura District, Bihar, India
Author : Shalini Nidhi Kumari and Dr. Ashok Kumar Yadav
Abstract :
Water quality plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance and biological productivity of freshwater ecosystems. The present study was conducted to assess the physico-chemical characteristics of pond water in Madhepura District, Bihar, India, during the pre-monsoon season. Water samples were collected from selected ponds and analyzed for various physicochemical parameters including pH, temperature, turbidity, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity, total hardness, alkalinity, chloride, sulphate, nitrate, fluoride, dissolved oxygen (DO), biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and selected heavy metals.
The results revealed that the pond water was moderately alkaline with a pH of 8.56 and a temperature of 28.5°C. The concentration of TDS (276 mg/L) and electrical conductivity (415 µS/cm) indicated moderate mineralization of water. Dissolved oxygen was recorded at 5.3 mg/L, suggesting the capability of the pond to support aquatic organisms. However, elevated BOD (14 mg/L) and COD (60 mg/L) values indicated considerable organic pollution. Iron (4.66 mg/L) and chromium (0.13 mg/L) concentrations were found to be comparatively high, suggesting possible anthropogenic and geogenic influences.
The study highlights the importance of regular monitoring of pond water quality for sustainable management of freshwater resources and conservation of aquatic biodiversity in rural ecosystems. The findings may provide valuable information for environmental planners, policymakers, and aquaculture practitioners in the region.
Keywords :
Pond Water, Physico-Chemical Parameters, Water Quality, Dissolved Oxygen, BOD, COD, Madhepura District, Bihar.
