Assessment of Water Quality of Meenachil River During Summer Season at Kottayam District, Kerala, India

Abstract

This study evaluates the water quality of the Meenachil River, Kerala, during summer season, with a focus on physico-chemical and heavy metal concentration in the  river water. Water samples were collected twice monthly from five selected stations—Bharananganam, Panachippara, Pala, Punnathura East and Munroe Light House. The parameters s pH, turbidity, alkalinity, hardness, total dissolved solids, dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand and selected trace metals were assessed and compared with the prescribed standards of CPCB. The results indicate slightly acidic conditions and predominantly soft-water characteristics across all sampling locations, suggesting low mineral content influenced by regional rainfall patterns. The results indicated that turbidity, alkalinity and dissolved solids, with downstream stations exhibiting comparatively higher values. Munroe Light House showed elevated turbidity, total dissolved solids, iron levels and microbial contamination, reflecting the combined effects of anthropogenic pressures, surface runoff and domestic sewage discharge during the summer months. The study highlights the importance of regular seasonal monitoring, strengthened sanitation infrastructure and effective catchment-level management to safeguard the ecological integrity and public health significance of the Meenachil River.