Variation of water quality across Cooum river in Chennai city

Abstract

The huge demand for freshwater resources in the 21^st century can be attributed to population growth, advanced agricultural practices and industrial usages. This study attempts to evaluate the water quality of Cooum river across Chennai, and was carried out by systematic collection and analysis of 5 water samples from 5 regions. Samples collected at some parts of the city were even found to be not fit for irrigation as they had high acidity, low dissolved oxygen and high amount of dissolved solids. Some samples were also found to have certain microbes which pose health hazards when ingested. The major contaminant sources identified in the areas were the samples were polluted were liquid and solid wastes, discharges from factories and refineries, drainage of sewage, and brine water in estuaries.

Keywords: Cooum river, Water quality, Hydrochemistry, Aquatic microbiology, River management