Examining water quality for pollution status of Dal Lake, Srinagar, India

Abstract

The quality of water plays a crucial role in determining the health of any freshwater ecosystem. This study aimed to assess the pollution levels in Dal Lake, situated in Srinagar, Kashmir. Over the course of 12 months, the lake was examined at six different locations across its four major basins. Six key parameters were monitored monthly using standardized methods. These parameters included pH (7.3 to 8.8), DO (5.2 to 8.6 mg/L), free CO₂ (4 to 15.5 mg/L), NO₃ˉ (0.2 to 4.6 mg/L), SO₄²ˉ (7 to 32 mg/L) and PO₄³ˉ (0.138 to 1.260 mg/L). Analysis of the data revealed an increase in pollution levels, attributed to untreated sewage and solid waste discharge from nearby residential areas, as well as the use of fertilizers containing Nitrates and Phosphates. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated to identify the strength of relation between the variables. Consequently, the lake has entered a eutrophic state. Urgent action is needed to prevent further degradation of the lake's ecosystem.