In the heart of Uttar Pradesh, the Gomati River winds its way through a landscape dotted with bustling cities and fertile farmlands. This vital waterway, a lifeline for agriculture and industry, has been under the microscope in a recent study published in *Discover Water*. Led by Babita Kumari from the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at Veer Bahadur Singh Purvanchal University, the research delves into the seasonal variations in the river’s water quality, offering insights that could shape future water management strategies and impact the agricultural sector.
The study, which assessed water quality at fourteen sites along the Gomati River from Pilibhit to Jaunpur, revealed a mixed bag of results. While parameters like pH, total alkalinity, total dissolved solids, and total hardness generally met the standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and the World Health Organization (WHO), other critical factors raised concerns. Dissolved oxygen levels were alarmingly low, and biological and chemical oxygen demand were high, particularly in the pre-monsoon period and downstream of urban centers like Sitapur, Lucknow, and Jaunpur.
“These findings underscore the urgent need for effective wastewater management policies in urban-adjacent areas,” Kumari emphasized. The Water Quality Index (WQI) classified sites near Lucknow as ‘Very Bad’ to ‘Poor’ before the monsoon, with improvements post-monsoon attributed to dilution. However, certain locations remained consistently poor in both seasons, highlighting persistent pollution issues.
The study also employed statistical techniques like Cluster Analysis (CA) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to identify pollution sources and key influencing factors. CA revealed that pre-monsoon pollution was concentrated downstream of major cities, while post-monsoon mobilization affected further downstream locations. PCA identified electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, pH, and temperature as significant pre-monsoon contributors, with electrical conductivity, chemical oxygen demand, and temperature having a greater influence post-monsoon.
For the agricultural sector, these findings are crucial. The Gomati River is a vital source of irrigation for vast stretches of farmland. Poor water quality can lead to reduced crop yields, soil degradation, and increased costs for farmers. “The resilience of the river due to self-purification and reduced industrial discharges post-COVID-19 lockdowns is a silver lining,” noted Kumari. However, this resilience is not guaranteed without sustained efforts to manage wastewater effectively.
The research also sheds light on the broader environmental impact. Municipal and industrial wastewater discharges were identified as the primary pollution sources. Addressing these issues requires a multi-pronged approach, including stricter regulations, improved wastewater treatment facilities, and public awareness campaigns.
Looking ahead, this study could shape future developments in water management and policy. The findings emphasize the need for continuous monitoring and adaptive management strategies to ensure the sustainable use of the Gomati River. For the agricultural sector, this means advocating for policies that prioritize water quality and supporting research into sustainable farming practices that can thrive despite water quality challenges.
As we navigate an era of climate change and increasing water scarcity, studies like this one are more important than ever. They provide a roadmap for protecting our vital water resources and ensuring a sustainable future for all.