Assessment of marine water quality parameters in Veraval fishing harbour, Gujarat

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of domestic sewage and seafood processing plant effluents on water quality at Veraval Fishing Harbour, Gujarat. Water samples were collected over an eight-month period from three sites: Site 1, receiving freshwater sewage from Veraval Municipality; Site 2, impacted by seafood processing effluents; and Site 3, near the bar mouth, influenced by seawater and household sewage from Bhidiya City. Physicochemical parameters, including temperature, pH, salinity, dissolved oxygen (DO), turbidity, alkalinity, hardness, conductivity, chloride, total solids (TS), total dissolved solids (TDS), total suspended solids (TSS), biological oxygen demand (BOD), nitrate, and phosphate, were analyzed. Results revealed significant water quality variations across sites. Site 1 showed elevated pH, alkalinity, conductivity, nitrate, and phosphate levels due to municipal sewage input. Site 2 exhibited high BOD and turbidity levels and reduced DO, reflecting organic pollution from seafood processing activities. Site 3, was less affected by industrial sources but influenced by seawater, demonstrated higher DO and lower BOD, with elevated TS, TDS, TSS, and hardness levels. Overall, Site 3 exhibited relatively better water quality compared to Sites 1 and 2. The findings highlight the impact of sewage and industrial effluents on water quality in Veraval Harbour. Corrective measures, including enhanced sewage and effluent treatment, continuous water quality monitoring, public awareness are recommended to mitigate pollution and support sustainable marine resources.