Exploring the Various Physico-chemical Parameters of Surface Water and Sediments of Dal Lake Srinagar, Kashmir

摘要

Background and Objective: The purpose of this study is to determine the levels of some physico-chemical parameters in water and sediment samples from various sites of Dal lake Srinagar, Kashmir. During the last few years the lake has been fallen victim of human greed in terms encroachments, direct sewage and runoff dumping from its vicinity as well as from its interior areas were directly emptied into the lake. Methodology: The samples for physico-chemical characteristics of water and bottom sedimentwere sampled on monthly basis from 2010-2011 and were analysed as per the standard methods. Results: On the basis of results obtained during present investigation, various physico-chemical parameters of both surface water and sediments depicted pollutedstatus of Dal lake. Nitrate concentration in surface water ranges from 45-1250 ug L~' while in sediments nitrate ranges from 0.5-15.4 ppm. Total phosphorus of both water (5-540 ug L-1) and sediment (13-149 ppm) also recorded higher values. Highest levels of nitrogen, phosphate and other constituents in both water and sediment were recorded at those sites which was located near houseboat and floating garden areas. Present study also highlight the significant positive relation (p>0.5) between different chemical parameters viz., pH, conductivity, chloride, nitrate-nitrogen and sulphates of both surface water and sediments. Conclusion: This study concludes that deterioration of water and sediment quality in the lake system due to anthropogenic activity and urbanization. The results of the study implies that continuous monitoring has to be carried out to ascertain the long-term impact of anthropogenic inputs to take remedial measures so as to ensure the health of aquatic life.