Study of heavy metal contamination of water bodies collected from flood affected area - Mammukku, Ranni, Pathanamthitta District, Kerala, India

Abstract

Physical and chemical parameters degrade water causing health issues in living organisms. The present study examines the variation in these parameters in Pamba River at Ranni. Water were collected from five different sources at Mamukku, Ranni and tested at CEPCI Kollam. The study showed that the water quality at Ranni is fit for domestic use in terms of heavy metals. But BOD levels were elevated due to the pressure of organic waste that could have been entered due to the presence of chemical and sewage wastes in water bodies at Ranni. Among the five heavy metals (Cadmium, Chromium, Lead, Mercury and Copper) Copper and Chromium were below the standard limit and the other three heavy metals Lead, Cadmium and Mercury was below detected level. The regular water treatment methods adopted in the area due to recent flood may be the result of water quality in Ranni with respect to heavy metals. The physical parameters like pH of water sources in Ranni is normal except well water which slightly acidic due to chemicals runoff and wastewater discharge. The TDS levels are normal in all five sources but BOD levels are elevated due to the presence of organic wastes entered from chemical and sewage disposal in water bodies.