Impact of Domestic Wastewater on Physico-Chemical and Biological Parameters of Rice Canal Water in Sukkur and Larkana, Pakistan

Abstract

The aim of present research work was to assess the physical parameters (temperature, turbidity, and color), chemical characteristics (pH, TDS, TSS, DO, COD, BOD, calcium and magnesium hardness, total hardness, iron, free and total chlorine, chloride, and alkalinity), and biological parameters (fecal coliform) from various sampling points along the Rice Canal in the Sukkur and Larkana, regions of Pakistan. The results showed pH values ranging between 6.5-8.5, DO 1.12-2.11 mg/L, BOD from 114-298 mg/L, and COD from 51 to115 mg/L. Calcium hardness ranged from 124-126 mg/L, magnesium hardness ranged between178-202 mg/L, and total hardness between 304-317 mg/L. Iron concentrations ranged from 0.01-0.06 mg/L, while free chlorine and total chlorine were 0 mg/L. Chloride ranged from 4-86 mg/L, alkalinity from 118-138 mg/L, and fecal coliform counts were 15 and 13 CFU, respectively. The resultant values were compared with Sindh Environmental Quality Standards (SEQs) and World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for water quality, and it was observed that several parameters exceeded SEQs, and WHO limits, indicating potential risks to local biodiversity, groundwater quality and on public health in the region. The findings of the present study will not only help in reducing pollutants at source of wastewater discharge into rice canal water, but also support to achieve Sustainable Development Goals#6 Clean Water and Sanitation.