Physicochemical Analysis of Wastewater of Industrial Area of Mahasamund, Chhattisagarh, India

Abstract

The study focuses on assessing the impact of industrialization on local water quality and the environment in the Mahasamund region, Chhattisgarh. Its main objective is to analyze physicochemical parameters of water and wastewater and relate them to BIS (IS: 10500) and WHO standards. The research was conducted in Birkoni and Belsonda, two rapidly developing industrial areas with agro-based, textile, and chemical units. Uncontrolled discharge of untreated effluents and sewage has polluted both surface and groundwater sources. Seasonal sampling was performed during pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon periods following APHA (2017) guidelines. Key parameters studied included pH, TDS, hardness, chloride, sulfate, nitrate, DO, BOD, and COD. pH values ranged between 6.4–8.3, indicating mild acidity to alkalinity from industrial and domestic effluents.  TDS exceeded permissible limits, reflecting high salinity and ionic concentration. Hardness (160–780 mg/L) classified most samples as hard to very hard, showing mineral contamination. Low DO (<4 mg/L) and high BOD (up to 48 mg/L) and COD (up to 120 mg/L) proved severe organic load from untreated waste. Water Quality Index (WQI) categorized most samples as moderately to highly polluted, unsuitable for direct domestic use. Compared with BIS and WHO limits, many parameters exceeded standards, showing unsuitability for drinking and moderate suitability for irrigation. Polluted water poses public health risks, including methemoglobinemia, gastrointestinal issues, and cardiovascular problems. Environmental effects include loss of aquatic biodiversity, eutrophication, and soil degradation. The study stresses the need for integrated, eco-sustainable wastewater management strategies. The research concludes that sustainable wastewater management, eco-based technologies, and policy integration can restore Mahasamund’s water ecosystem and promote long-term environmental health.