SEASONAL PHYSICO-CHEMICAL ASSESSMENT OF TAPTI RIVER WATER QUALITY: A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS FOR IRRIGATION AND DOMESTIC APPLICATIONS

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive assessment of the physico-chemical characteristics of the Tapti River water at Multai, Betul District, Madhya Pradesh, during December 2024 and March 2025. The research evaluates water quality parameters to determine suitability for irrigation and domestic consumption. Ten parameters including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity, alkalinity, total hardness, iron (Fe), nitrate (NO₃⁻), chloride (Cl⁻), and dissolved oxygen (DO) were analyzed following standard methods. Results indicate seasonal variations with most parameters within permissible limits set by WHO and BIS standards. December 2024 showed pH 7.8±0.2, EC 385±15 μS/cm, TDS 246±12 mg/L, and turbidity 8.5±0.5 NTU. March 2025 exhibited slightly elevated values with pH 8.1±0.2, EC 425±18 μS/cm, TDS 272±14 mg/L, and turbidity 12.3±0.8 NTU. Statistical analysis revealed significant seasonal differences (p<0.05) for turbidity and TDS. Water Quality Index (WQI) calculations yielded values of 68.4 and 72.6 for December and March respectively, indicating "good" water quality. The study concludes that Tapti River water at Multai is suitable for both irrigation and domestic purposes with minimal treatment requirements. Keywords: Water quality, Physico-chemical parameters, Tapti River, Seasonal variation, Water Quality Index, Betul.