A Seasonal Variation in Physicochemical Parameters of Kot Dam, Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, India

Abstract

Water is a vital resource for the survival and existence of life on Earth. Lakes and surface water bodies represent vital freshwater resources in the ecosystem and offer several benefits. Lakes and surface water bodies are vital for regulating local climates, serving as natural water storage systems and offering key services to human populations, including irrigation, recreation and potable water supply. Evaluating the physicochemical qualities of water is crucial prior to its use for drinking, residential, agricultural or industrial applications. Consistent assessment of water quality measures, including pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen and mineral composition, can yield significant insights into its overall status and potential hazards. We conducted current study from summer 2021 to winter 2022-23 to evaluate the seasonal variations in the physicochemical parameters of Kot Dam. We determined three sampling stations to evaluate the physico-chemical parameters of Kot Dam. Summer season had highest temperature as compared to monsoon and winter. Seasonal variation and other climatic factors, such as cloud cover, sunlight and sun positions, also influenced the water transparency. pH limits of Kot dam were observed between 6.84 to 7.45, and higher pH was observed during winter season as compare to other season. Electrical conductivity of Kot Dam ranges from 485 to 592.3 μmhos/cm. TDS value of Kot dam ranges between 320 to 382 mg/l, while hardness values range from 117 to 172 mg/l. Calcium ion concentrations ranged from 24.36 to 38.25 mg/l,and highest magnesium level in winter 2022–23 (17.96 mg/l) was at sampling station I and the lowest level in summer 2022 (11.99 mg/l) was at sampling station III. Concentrations of chloride at Kot Dam ranged from 75.75 to 87.75 mg/l. Value of alkalinity ranges between 114 to 128.75 mg/l. Value of dissolved oxygen ranged between 2.40 mg/l to 4.72 mg/l. Amount of fluoride was observed between 0.1 ppm to 0.11 ppm. During study, we found that highest concentration of BOD was in summer season at all three sampling stations and lowest was in monsoon season. Similarly, during study, we observed the seasonal fluctuations in COD in different seasons as well as different sampling stations. Understanding these characteristics is critical for implementing appropriate treatment measures and ensuring the health of ecosystems, crops and human populations that rely on water sources. Furthermore, modern technology, such as bio-monitoring and remote sensing, can improve conventional water quality assessment procedures, resulting in a more comprehensive understanding of aquatic ecosystem health and its potential long-term implications for water resources.