Evaluation of surface water quality by analyzing physicochemical and microbiological properties in Chimdi (Barju) Lake of Koshi Province, Nepal

This study evaluated the water quality of Barju Lake in Sunsari District, Nepal, focusing on physicochemical, heavy metal, and microbiological parameters during post-monsoon 2022 and pre-monsoon 2023. The average temperature of the lake water was recorded at 26.4°C±0.5983 and 33.6°C±0.6519, with TDS levels of 18.2±6.0166 mg/L and 22.8±5 mg/L. The pH levels were 6.6±0.5477 and 7±0.5, and DO levels were 7.1±0.5522 mg/L and 6.4±0.4183. The total dissolved solids (TA) and total suspended solids (TH) levels were 38±2.7386 mg/L and 40±3.5355 mg/L, respectively. The concentrations of heavy metals were found in S1, S2, S3, S4, and S5 during post-monsoon 2022 and pre-monsoon 2023, respectively. The average concentrations of fecal coliforms were recorded at 20±3.5355 CFU/100 mL during post-monsoon 2022 and at 10±3.847 CFU/100 mL during pre-monsoon 2023. The study highlights the importance of monitoring water quality and addressing potential issues in order to maintain a healthy ecosystem.