Analysis of metal content in water of river Beas in Himachal Pradesh, India

Abstract

In present investigation analysis of water was done during monsoon, winter and summer seasons for metal content of river Beas in Himachal Pradesh during the year 2014-15. Metals such as Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Potassium (K), Sodium (Na), Copper (Cu), Iron (Fe) and Lead (Pb) were analyzed from six sampling stations i.e. Beaskund, Shamshi, Pandohdam, Dharampur, Nadaun and Pongdam in the study area. The analysis of data reveals that Ca, Mg, K, Na, Cu were found to be within acceptable limit prescribed by WHO, 2011 and BIS, 2012. However, Cd and Pb were found to be higher than acceptable limit prescribed by WHO, 2011 and BIS, 2012. The presence of higher concentration of heavy metals such as Cd and Pb due to their toxicity and bioaccumulation has adverse effect on the health of living beings including humans. The study indicates that water of river Beas needs constant bio monitoring.