In the heart of Odisha, India, the Mahanadi River, a lifeline for millions, is under siege. Rapid urbanization and industrial growth have taken a toll on its water quality, posing significant challenges for drinking water supply and the energy sector that relies on it. A groundbreaking study led by Abhijeet Das, a researcher from the Department of Civil Engineering at C.V. Raman Global University in Bhubaneswar, sheds light on the complex interplay of factors affecting the river’s health and offers innovative solutions to tackle the crisis.
Das and his team employed a suite of cutting-edge techniques to evaluate the spatiotemporal impact of superficial factors on the Mahanadi’s water quality. Their work, recently published in the Journal of Hydrology: Regional Studies (translated to English as ‘Journal of Hydrology: Regional Studies’), combines traditional water quality monitoring with advanced tools like Machine Learning and Multi-Criteria Decision-Making analysis. The study’s findings paint a stark picture of the river’s deteriorating condition and provide a roadmap for targeted interventions.
The research team collected water samples from 16 locations along the Mahanadi over four monsoon seasons, analyzing 21 parameters to assess water quality. They found that more than 62.5% of the samples exceeded the allowable threshold for Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN), a key indicator of organic pollution. High concentrations of chloride and nitrate, often linked to agricultural runoff and industrial effluents, were also detected. “The results are alarming,” Das stated. “The river’s water quality is deteriorating at an unprecedented rate, with man-made factors playing a significant role.”
To understand the spatial distribution of pollutants, the team employed geospatial analysis and Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) interpolation. This approach allowed them to create detailed maps highlighting areas with the greatest fluctuations in water quality. The study also utilized the Methods Based on Removal Effects of Criteria (MEREC) Water Quality Index (WQI) and Random Forest (RF) technique to identify locations most affected by cumulative factors like sewage discharge, lowering of water table, dilution, and surface runoff.
One of the study’s most innovative aspects is the use of the Additive Ratio Assessment (ARAS) modeling, a multi-objective decision-making tool. ARAS helped rank the sampling sites based on their pollution levels, with sites SN-(8), (9), and (16) identified as the most contaminated and unsuitable for human consumption. “ARAS provides a clear utility value for each site, making it an invaluable tool for prioritizing remediation efforts,” Das explained.
The implications of this research for the energy sector are profound. The Mahanadi River is a crucial water source for thermal power plants, which rely on consistent water quality for cooling and other processes. Poor water quality can lead to increased maintenance costs, reduced efficiency, and even plant shutdowns. By identifying the most polluted areas and understanding the factors driving water quality variability, energy companies can work with policymakers and local communities to implement targeted remediation strategies.
The study’s findings also highlight the need for integrated water management approaches that consider both natural and anthropogenic factors. As Das noted, “The chemistry of surface water is influenced by a complex interplay of natural causes and man-made actions. Addressing this challenge requires a holistic approach that engages all stakeholders.”
The research conducted by Das and his team offers a blueprint for similar studies in other river basins, both in India and around the world. By combining traditional monitoring techniques with advanced analytical tools, scientists and policymakers can gain a deeper understanding of water quality dynamics and develop more effective management strategies. As the energy sector continues to grapple with the impacts of climate change and increasing water scarcity, such innovative approaches will be crucial for ensuring a sustainable and secure water supply.
The study, published in the Journal of Hydrology: Regional Studies, represents a significant step forward in the quest to protect and preserve our vital water resources. As the world continues to urbanize and industrialize, the lessons learned from the Mahanadi River will be increasingly relevant, shaping the future of water quality management and the energy sector’s role in this critical endeavor.
