MONITORING OF SEASONAL VARIATION IN PHYSICOCHEMICAL QUALITIES OF SELECTED RIVER SITES OF BANASKANTHA DISTRICT, NORTH GUJARAT

Abstract

The present study was conducted to assess the seasonal variations in the physicochemical characteristics of selected river sites, Parevapani and Viramveri, in Banaskantha District, North Gujarat. Water samples were analysed during summer, rainy and winter seasons to evaluate variations in selected physical and chemical parameters and to understand the seasonal changes in water quality. The study included parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, total hardness, dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), chloride, nitrate, phosphate and alkalinity. The results revealed considerable seasonal variations in the physicochemical characteristics of water at both sampling sites. Total dissolved solids ranged from 550 to 620 mg/L at Parevapani and 520 to 620 mg/L at Viramveri, while total hardness varied between 260 and 400 mg/L at both sites. BOD concentrations were comparatively higher during summer, reaching 3.2 mg/L at Parevapani and 3.0 mg/L at Viramveri. In contrast, DO concentrations were higher during winter, reaching 2.8 mg/L and 3.0 mg/L, respectively. Chloride concentrations also showed seasonal fluctuations, with maximum values recorded during winter at both sites. These variations may be associated with seasonal changes in rainfall, evaporation, surface runoff and biological activity. The findings highlight the influence of seasonal and hydrological factors on the physicochemical characteristics of the selected river sites and emphasize the importance of regular water quality monitoring for the sustainable management of freshwater resources in the region.