Assessment of Water Quality of Different Water Bodies in and around Delhi, India

Abstract

Water quality plays a crucial role in sustaining ecosystems, supporting agriculture, and safeguarding human health. This study assessed the physico-chemical characteristics of water samples collected from three distinct water bodies in the Delhi-NCR region: The Yamuna River in Haryana, a natural pond at Sunder Nursery in Delhi, and a village pond in Greater Noida. Parameters including chemical oxygen demand (COD), dissolved oxygen (DO), free carbon dioxide, chloride, alkalinity, sulphate concentration, and total dissolved solids (TDS) were analyzed to evaluate pollution levels and their potential impacts. The results revealed marked site-specific variations, with Delhi water exhibiting the highest COD (48 mg/L), sulphate (7.1 mg/L), and TDS (1480 ppm), indicating heavy contamination from urban and industrial sources. The Yamuna sample showed critically low DO (0.125 mg/L) and elevated chloride (298 mg/L), reflecting the combined influence of sewage discharge, industrial effluents and agricultural runoff. Comparatively, the Noida Pond displayed relatively better water quality, although still impacted by moderate bicarbonate alkalinity and chloride levels. These findings highlight significant risks to agricultural productivity, as polluted irrigation water can alter soil chemistry, reduce crop yields, and lead to long-term soil salinity and toxicity. Overall, the study underscores the urgent need for improved wastewater management, stricter regulation of agricultural and industrial discharges, and community-level awareness to safeguard water quality, ensure agricultural sustainability and protect public health in the Delhi-NCR region.