ASSESSMENT OF SEASONAL WATER QUALITY VARIATIONS USING PHYSICO-CHEMICAL PARAMETERS OF INDIRA GANDHI CANAL IN SARDARPURA, SURATGARH, RAJASTHAN

Water quality assessment is essential for evaluating the ecological health and suitability of freshwater resources. The present study investigated the seasonal variation in selected physico-chemical parameters of water from the study area during summer, monsoon, and winter seasons. Parameters including pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), and other water quality indicators were analysed to understand seasonal fluctuations and pollution status. The results revealed significant seasonal variations among the measured parameters. Dissolved oxygen recorded its highest values during winter, indicating the inverse relationship between water temperature and oxygen solubility. In contrast, total dissolved solids and electrical conductivity were highest during summer due to increased evaporation and concentration of dissolved salts. The observed seasonal changes demonstrated a reciprocal relationship between DO and thermogenic conditions, TDS, and EC. Comparison with standard permissible limits indicated that several water quality parameters exceeded the recommended values, suggesting considerable deterioration in water quality. The findings reveal that the studied water bodies are under substantial pollution stress and may pose ecological as well as public health concerns if used without appropriate treatment. Continuous monitoring and implementation of effective pollution control and water management strategies are therefore recommended to improve and sustain the quality of these water resources.