Spatial Assessment of Wastewater Quality of Nag River for Irrigation

Abstract

Rapid industrialization and overpopulation have stimulated increase in both domestic and industrial wastewater. Due to lack of efficient sewerage system and absence of treatment plants, the wastewater is discharged into drainage systems causing environmental and health implications. At various points, the wastewater of these drains is used for irrigation purposes. A study conducted at Nagpur during 2012-13 characterizes the effluent of major drains of Nagpur city and assess its suitability for irrigation. Temporal and spatial wastewater samples were collected from drains in rainy, winter and summer seasons during morning, afternoon; and evening and analysed for various parameters of special concern to irrigation. TSS, TDS, BOD, COD, N, P, EC, pH, micronutrient like Zn, Mn, Cu, Fe and heavy metals Co, Cd ,Cr and Pb varied in concentration at different locations at different time and seasons when compared with BIS and FAO guidelines for irrigation. Regular monitoring and proper treatment of wastewater before discharging into the drains can reduce the pollution in these drains. As the sewage water contains pollutants at higher levels, its direct use for irrigation and other purpose should be restricted.