Industrial expansion in coal-based thermal power generation, aluminium processing, and mining sectors has intensified concerns regarding water quality deterioration in the industrial cluster of Korba. The present study aims to assess the physico-chemical characteristics and heavy metal contamination of industrial water discharged into and around the Hasdeo River. A systematic sampling strategy was adopted covering effluent outlets, ash pond discharge points, upstream and downstream river locations, and selected groundwater borewells. Samples were collected during pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods and analyzed using standard methods prescribed by APHA. Key physical parameters such as temperature, turbidity, and Total Suspended Solids (TSS) were evaluated to determine thermal and particulate pollution. Chemical parameters including pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) were analyzed to assess organic and inorganic pollution load. Heavy metals such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), and zinc (Zn) were quantified using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry. Results indicated elevated turbidity, TSS, BOD, COD, and TDS levels at effluent discharge points compared to upstream reference sites. The BOD/COD ratio suggested partially biodegradable effluent with significant chemical contamination. Cadmium and chromium concentrations exceeded Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) permissible limits at certain discharge locations, indicating potential ecological and public health risks. Although dilution reduced pollutant concentration downstream, cumulative impacts remain evident. Comparative evaluation with CPCB discharge standards and World Health Organization (WHO) drinking water guidelines revealed partial compliance, with heavy metals and organic load parameters showing notable deviations. The study highlights moderate to high pollution intensity in localized zones and underscores the need for strengthened effluent treatment, periodic monitoring, and strict regulatory enforcement to ensure environmental sustainability in the Korba industrial region.
Sahu et al. (Sun,) studied this question.
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