Assessment of Municipal and Industrial Wastewater Impact on Yamuna River Water Quality in Delhi

Abstract

Delhi's Yamuna River serves as a notable illustration of an ecologically compromised system that has undergone a transition into a conduit for sewage due to pervasive pollution and escalating anthropogenic influences. Delhi, being the primary contributor to pollution, is responsible for over 70% of the total pollutant load in the Yamuna. The city's drainage systems discharge a substantial Biological Oxygen Demand load into the river daily, resulting in severe pollution. This research utilizes pre-existing data to examine diverse factors, evaluating the quality of water at distinct observation locations along the Yamuna. The utilization of correlation analysis aids in recognizing connections among elements influencing the pollution of river water. The outcomes of the correlation analysis disclose a notable link between COD-BOD factors, whereas the connections among alternative factors like BOD-DO, BOD-pH, COD-DO, COD-pH, and DOpH range from moderate to negligible. The majority of observed parameters exceed hazardous levels deemed acceptable for river water utilization. The evaluation of Sewage Treatment Plants highlights the imperative to augment capacity in terms of treatment, storage, reactivation of closed plants, and efficient operation to meet the growing demand for fresh water. Additionally, there is a pressing need to generate demand for wastewater in diverse urban sectors.