Abstract

EVALUATION OF WATER QUALITY: PHYSICO-CHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF FRESH AND MARINE WATER ECOSYSTEMS IN THANE DISTRICT, M.S, INDIA

Shubhangi A. Rajguru* and Padma V. Deshmukh

ABSTRACT

In the current decade, with Industrialization, Urbanization and Economic growth on one side, we still have two major limitations in front of us i.e. Population & Pollution. Rightly said, “Correct diagnosis is half Cure”. On Similar lines in order to rectify Pollution problem we first need to understand, assess its nature and devise solutions within our reach. Natural Ecosystems have always served as an inexhaustible source of micro-organisms with varied potential in all walks of life. The Present investigation deals with the study of Physico- chemical parameters of fresh and marine water ecosystems in remote areas of Thane district, M.S, India. Monthly variation in Colour, Temperature, pH, salinity, Electrical conductivity, COD, BOD, DO, TDS, Chloride content, Hardness content is noted. The study indicates that even though these ecosystems are remotely located, increasing human population in the area has led to over-utilization of natural resources viz; water, soil & fuels which are already limited. Anthropogenic activities have drastically increased the pollution levels in these ecosystems. Data obtained during Physico-chemical analysis is interpreted with the aid of statistical tools. Statistical analysis confirm the status of these ecosystems as polluted. Once the status is assessed, the curative measures can be planned and implemented.

Keywords: Economic growth, Natural Ecosystems, Anthropogenic activities, Physico- chemical Analysis.