WATER QUALITY ASSESSMENT OF ADYAR RIVER

USING GIS

A MAIN PROJECT REPORT

Submitted by

SOUNDHARYA R S
SUJITHA M
YOGESH P
SASI K

in partial fulfilment for the award of the degree

Of
BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY
IN

CIVIL ENGINEERING

BHARATH INSTITUTE OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND RESEARCH

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING
CHENNAI-600 073

APRIL 2018
 BHARATH INSTITUTE OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND
RESEARCH

CHENNAI-600073

BONAFIDE CERTIFICATE

Certified that this project report “WATER QUALITY ASSESSMENT OF

ADYAR RIVER USING GIS” is the bonafide work of “SOUNDHARYA R S

(U14CE210), SUJITHA M (U14CE218), YOGESH P (U14CE243), SASI K

(U14CE257)” who carried out the project work under my supervision.

SIGNATURE SIGNATURE

Dr.A.MANI B. KAVIYA

HEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT SUPERVISOR

Dept. of Civil Engineering Dept. of Civil Engineering

BIHER BIHER

Chennai – 600073 Chennai – 600073

Submitted for the Project Viva Voce Examination held on 12/APRIL/2018

INTERNAL EXAMINER EXTERNAL EXAMINER

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We express our thanks to our beloved Chancellor Mr.J.Sandeep Anand,

Vice-Chancellor Dr. V. Kanagasabai for creating the necessary infrastructure to do this
project.

Our heartfelt gratitude to Ms.B. Kaviya Assistant Professor., for guiding us and
encouraging us throughout this project.

We express our gratitude to HOD of Civil Engineering Dr.A.Mani for his valuable
encouragement during the tenure.

Our heartiest thanks to all the faculty of Department of Civil Engineering and also to
Mrs.B.SarithaAssistant professor and Mr.P.Sadhansystem manager CADD Lab and
Ms.Rebaccal Lab Assistant EE Lab for creating workable atmosphere in the laboratories to
accomplishthis project.

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 ABSTRACT
Surface water is a valuable natural resource that is essential for human-health, socio-
economic development and functioning of ecosystem. It can become contaminated naturally
or because of numerous types of human activities; residential, municipal, commercial,
industrial, and agricultural activities. Since pollution of river bodies is a major problem in
India, because of inadequacy / non -existence of surface water quality protection measures
and sanitation. pH, DO, COD, BOD, Chloride and Hardness are basic water quality
parameter. Deterioration of water quality receives more attention to mapping the current
situation of water quality parameter provides the better management of resources. Water
sample collected from 20 different locations along Adyar River. Interpolation methods
facilitate to estimate values for unknown point and create a continuous dataset to study the
spatial distribution. The IDW (inverse distance weighted) and Spline tools are deterministic
interpolation method and Kringing are based on a statistical model. IDW best fit method of
interpolation was used with help of Geographic Information System (GIS) software Arc GIS
10.4.1 to visualize the spatial distribution of above water quality parameters. This study has
shown that IDW interpolation perform better mapping of water parameter.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER NO. TITLE PAGE NO.

ABSTRACT III
LIST OF TABLES VI
LIST OF FIURES VII

1. INTRODUCTION 1
1.1 GENERAL 1
1.1.1 GEOGRAPIC INFORMATION SYSTEM (GIS) 2
1.2 OBJECTIVE 2
1.3 NEED FOR STUDY 2

2. LITERATURE REVIEW 3

3.STUDY AREA
3.1 GENERAL11

4. METHODOLOGY 13
4.1. GENERAL 13

5. EXPREMENTAL STUDEY 14
5.1. PARAMETERS 14
5.1.1 pH 14
5.1.2 Total Solids 14
5.1.3 Total Dissolved Solids 14
5.1.4 Alkalinity 15
5.1.5 Hardness 15
5.1.6 Chlorides 17
5.1.7 Phosphate 17
5.1.8 Iron 18
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 5.1.9 Nitrate 19
5.1.10 COD 20
5.1.11 BOD 20
5.2. GRAPHICAL REPRESENTATION CHART FOR SAMPLE LOCATION
AND PARAMETERS 24
5.2.1 pH 24
5.2.2 Total Dissolved Solids 25
5.2.3 Alkalinity 26
5.2.4 Hardness 27
5.2.5 Chloride 28
5.2.6 Fluoride 29
5.2.7 Iron 30
5.2.8 Ammonia 31
5.2.9 Nitrite 32
5.2.10 Nitrate 33
5.2.11 Phosphate 34
5.2.12 Turbidity 35
5.2.13 Electrical Conductivity 36
5.2.14 Dissolved Oxygen 37
5.2.15 COD 38
5.2.16 BOD 39
5.3 APPENDIX 40

6 RESULT AND DISCUSSION 46

6.1 POINT FEATURE OF SAMPLE LOCATION USING ARC GIS 46
6.2 GENERATION OF THEMATIC MAPS OF WATER QUALITY
PRAMETERS 47
6.2.1 Spatial Variation of pH along Adyar River 47

6.2.2 Spatial Variation of TDS along Adyar River 48

V
 6.2.3 Spatial Variation of Alkalinity along Adyar River

6.2.4 Spatial Variation of Hardness along Adyar River 49

6.2.5 Spatial Variation of Chloride along Adyar River 50

6.2.6 Spatial Variation of Fluoride along Adyar River 51

6.2.7 Spatial Variation of Iron along Adyar River 52

6.2.8 Spatial Variation of Ammonia along Adyar River 53

6.2.9 Spatial Variation of Nitrite along Adyar River 54

6.2.10 Spatial Variation of Nitrate along Adyar River 55

6.2.11 Spatial Variation of Phosphate along Adyar River 56

6.2.12 Spatial Variation of Turbidity along Adyar River 57

6.2.13 Spatial Variation of EC along Adyar River 58

6.2.14 Spatial Variation of DO along Adyar River 59

6.2.15 Spatial Variation of COD along Adyar River 60

6.2.16 Spatial Variation of BOD along Adyar River 62

CONCLUSION 63

REFERENCES 64

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X
 CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 GENERAL

Water is a most valuable natural resource for all living creatures on the earth. Majority of
our planet is covered by water; only a very small proportion is associated with large
continental areas to which humans are primarily confined. A large amount (more than 99%)
is in the form of ice or ground water and is difficult for human to use. Water may be
contaminated by various means, chemically or biologically and may become unfit for
drinking and other uses. 70% of the water is seriously polluted in our country. Water
pollution is primarily associated with domestic and industrial waste. In developing countries,
industrial effluents and domestic sewage are indiscriminately discharged into adjoining
rivers and water bodies without any pre -treatment. Domestic waste water contains a large
amount of organic matter, nitrate, phosphate, chloride, detergents, inorganic salt, oil etc.
Industrial effluents contain a variety of pollutants such as heavy metals, pesticides,
fertilizers, detergents, organic and inorganic salts, oil, and coli formsetc. which create
serious problems to the non- target organisms. Today, due to various anthropogenic
activities, the river water usually receives untreated sewage, domestic waste, industrial and
agricultural effluents that results in pollution of several rivers in India and abroad. During
the last several decades the water quality of the Indian river has been deteriorating due to
continuous discharge of industrial waste and domestic sewage. Industries are dumping their
effluents into the rivers, thereby polluting them severely. Due to high organic and toxic
materials, the industrial effluents from industries are a major source of water pollution in
Indian rivers. Water pollution is primarily associated with domestic and industrial waste.
Waste water discharge from sewage and industries are major component of water pollution
contributing oxygen demand and nutrient loading of the water bodies, promoting toxic algal
blooms and leading to a destabilized aquatic ecosystem. Assessments of river water quality
have been done by various investigators in India.

1
1.1.1 GEOGRAPIC INFORMATION SYSTEM (GIS)
Geographical information system is a system designed to capture, store, manipulate,
analyse and all types of spatial or geographical data. The acronym GIS is sometimes used for
geographic information science. Modern GIS technologies use digital information, for which
various digitized data creation methods are used. GIS accuracy depends upon source data.
GIS data represents real objects (such as roads, land use, elevation, trees, waterways, etc).
Survey data can be directly entered into GIS from Digital Data collection systems on survey
instruments using co-ordinate geometry (COGO).

1.2 OBJECTIVES

The main objective of the study is

 To determine the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of water and compare
the results with BIS standards.
 To create base map and thematic map of the study area.
 To determine the spatial variability of parameters by using GIS.
 To determine water quality index of the river.

1.3 NEED FOR STUDY

 Water pollution is primarily associated with domestic and industrial waste.

 Lake water and ground water are valuable resource that is essential for human health,
socio economic development and functioning of eco-system.
 Due to anthropogenic activities, the river water usually receives untreated sewage,
domestic waste, industrial effluents that results in pollution of several rivers.
 Wastewater discharge from sewage and industries are major component of water
pollution contributing oxygen demand and nutrient loading of the water bodies.
 Assessment of river water quality has been very useful to determine the status of pollutant
load of river.

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 CHAPTER 2

LITERATURE REVIEW

D.S. Rathore et al., (2014) Studied and determine the water pollution status of Ayad
River after crossing the urban and industrial area of Udaipur. Ayad River is very Old River
which passes through the heart of Udaipur city; it carries waste water containing urban and
industrial effluents. Two sampling stations Domestic effluent station and Industrial effluent
station were identified for sampling. The water quality variables were analyzed as per standard
methods given in American Public Health Association (APHA, 1989). So they concluded that
the water quality parameters such as pH, temperature, conductivity, TDS, DO, BOD, COD,
acidity, alkalinity, total hardness, chloride, nitrate, phosphate, MPN, and heavy metals is
analyzed and compared the results.

Manjesh Kumar and Ramesh Kumar., (2013) Carried out experimental work on
Physico-Chemical Properties of Ground Water of U.P., (India). The study deals with evaluation
of granite mines situated in jhansi (Goramachia) for their status about physicochemical
contamination of ground water. Six different sites are selected for sample testing collected from
mines and urban area. Three samples have been taken at various distances on the site. This
location is 10Km above from Jhansi city. The physic-chemical parameters such as pH, D.O.,
E.C., T.D.S., alkalinity, turbidity, Ca (calcium) and Mg (magnesium) hardness, total hardness,
NO3 (nitrate), F (fluoride), Fe+3 (iron) and Cl- (chloride) have been tested. It has been found
that parameters are not in limit when compared with W.H.O. standards.

ShwetaTyagi, Bhavtosh Sharma et al.,(2013) carried out Water quality assessment in

terms of Water Quality Index at Uttarakhand (India). The study states that Water quality index
(WQI) is valuable and unique rating to depict the overall water quality status in a single term that
is helpful for the selection of appropriate treatment technique to meet the concerned issues.
However, WQI depicts the composite influence of different water quality parameters and
communicates water quality information to the public and legislative decision makers. In spite of
absence of a globally accepted composite index of water quality, some countries have used and
are using aggregated water quality data in the development of water quality indices. Attempts
have been made to review the WQI criteria for the appropriateness of drinking water sources.
Besides, the present article also highlights and draws attention towards the development of a new

3
and globally accepted “Water Quality Index” in a simplified format, which may be used at large
and could represent the reliable picture of water quality. Initially, WQI selecting 10 most
commonly used water quality variables like dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, coliforms, specific
conductance, alkalinity and chloride etc. and has been widely applied and accepted in European,
African and Asian countries.

Wu-Seng Lung et al., (2013) has studied, a twolayer time-variable model is developed to
quantify seasonal variations of pH and alkalinity levels in acidic lakes. The model incorporates
the CO2/ HCOJ/ CO5 equilibria with internal sources and sinks of alkalinity and acidity in the
water column. External alkalinity and C02 acidity loadings are also incorporated. The modeling
framework is applied to the Bickford Reservoir in Massachusetts and to Woods Lake and
Panther Lake in Adirondack Park, New York. In general, in-lake alkalinity generationby
reduction processes in the Bickford Reservoir during the summer months is simulated by the
model. The observed response to snowpack release in Woods Lake and Panther Lake during the
spring months is also reproduced by the model. All three model applications are efficiently run
on a personal computer system.

J Sirajudeen et al., (2013) Carried out the work on ground water for evaluating the
W.Q.I. Samplescollected an Ampikapuram area near Uyyakondan channel Tiruchirappalli
district. For Evolution of water quality index following parameters are examined: pH, E.C.,
T.D.S., Totalhardness, D.O., C.O.D., B.O.D., Cl-, NO3 and Mg .The WQI for these samples
ranged between is 244 to 383.8.The analysis reveals that the groundwater of the area needs
some degree oftreatment before consumption, and it also needs to be protectedfrom the perils
of contamination.
Shimaa M. Ghoraba et al., (2013) collected 120 ground water samples from 29
Districts of Balochistan, Pakistan. The various parameters are selected for the testing of
samples. All samples were analyzed for pH, Calcium, Carbonate, Magnesium, Sodium,
Potassium, Chlorides, Sulphate and Nitrate, TDS and bicarbonate. The results revealed highly
variable hydrochemistry. The chloride is found to be most predominating. The groundwater
in Balochistan has high concentrations of fluoride, iron and nitrate in many districts. The pH
part of the Durov diagram reveals that groundwater in study area is alkaline and electrical
conductivity of most of samples lies in the range of drinking water standards adapted in
Pakistan. From the SAR and conductivity plot it was found that most of groundwater cannot
be used on soil without restricted drainage and special requirement of Management for
salinity control. Comparision of data with WHO(2011) standards for drinking water indicate

4
that the groundwater in the most of study area are suitable for drinking purpose except some
few places. The groundwater recorded a wide range in TDS.

J Sirajudeen et al., (2013) Carried out the work on ground water for evaluating the
W.Q.I. Samples collected an Ampikapuram area near Uyyakondan channel Tiruchirappalli
district. For Evolution of water quality index following parameters are examined: pH, E.C.,
T.D.S., Total hardness, D.O., C.O.D., B.O.D., Cl-, NO3 and Mg.The WQI for these samples
ranged between is 244 to 383.8.The analysis reveals that the groundwater of the area needs
some degree of treatment before consumption, and it also needs to be protected from the
perils of contamination.

Amaliya N.K. et al., (2013) carried out ground waterquality status by water quality
index method at Kanyakumari(INDIA), that the Quality Index assessment method is used to
monitor the pollution status of water samples by integrating the water quality variables. The
aim of this work is to monitor the pollution level of ground water samples from different
places of Kanyakumari district. For calculating the Quality Index the following18 water
quality variables such as EC, TDS, DO, TH, pH, alkalinity, calcium, sodium, magnesium,
sulphate, phosphate, potassium, chloride, fluoride, manganese and nitrate have been
considered. The different ground water samples of Kanyakumari district have quality index
values ranging from8.45 to 162.3. In this present work the status of water quality is found to
be good for consumption and other purposes except Kalkulam bore well water sample.

S. Chandra et al.,(2012) have described, lake water is a source of drinking and domestic
use water for rural and urban population of India. The main goal of the present study was to
assess drinking water quality of various lakes i.e. Porur lake Chennai, Hussain Sager
HydrabadVihar lake Mumbai in India. For this, lakes water samples were collected from six
different sites and composite sample prepared were analyzed for pH, turbidity, electrical
conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), total alkalinity (TA), total hardness (TH)and
calcium hardness (Ca-H), chemical oxygen demand(COD), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD),
dissolved oxygen (D.O.), sulphate (as SO42-), nitrate (as NO3) and chloride (Cl-) levels .Some
heavy metals like Iron, Zinc, Cadmium, Mercury, Nickel and Chromium were also analyzed in
these samples. There were variations for EC (141-1041), turbidity (2-9 NTU), TDS (107.1–935.8
mg/L), SO42- (4–8 mg/L), TA (42–410 mg/L), TH (41-280 mg/L), Ca–H (1410 mg/L), BOD (5-
9mg/L), COD (4–32 mg/L) NO3(1.1-3.6 mg/L) and Cl- (49-167 mg/L) levels at different sites.

5
Water pollution indicates that these parameters were manifold higher than the prescribed limit by
the WHO & BIS standard.

Shivayogimath C.B et al., (2012) Studied various physico-chemical parameter such as

temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen
demand (COD), hardness, alkalinity, etc. were analyzed every month for two years (2006-07 and
2007-08) and presented as two year average values during pre-monsoon and post monsoon
seasons. From the results it was found that there was a significant increase, especially in the pre-
monsoon season, in all the physico-chemical parameters from the downstream of Gokak town.
However, all the parameters were within the prescribed limits of drinking water standards. As
per the CPCB stream classification, based on the results of BOD, the river stretch up to a
distance of 3 km from the upstream boundary (upstream of Gokak town) can be designated as
class of stream ‘C’, whereas the stretch between 3 to 30 km can be categorized as class of stream
‘D’. In terms of DO, the river satisfied the standards of class of stream ‘C’ (> 4 mg/l) at all the
places during both the seasons.

Patil. P.N et al., (2012) has been worked out the physico-chemical parameters such as
colour, temperature, acidity, hardness, pH, sulphate, chloride, DO, BOD, COD, alkalinity
used for testing of water quality. Heavy metals such as Pb, Cr, Fe, Hg etc. are of special
concern because they produce water or chronic poisoning in aquatic animals. Some water
analysis reports with physic-chemical parameters have been given for the exploring
parameter study. Guidelines of different physic-chemical parameters also have been given for
comparing the value of real water sample.
Cristina Rosu et al., (2011) carried out work on quality of ground water by W.Q.I.
method in Tureni Village, Cluj County. The rural population from Romania is dealing even
today with the absence of access to a sure drinking water source. Therefore in 2002 only 65% of
the Romanian population had access to drinking water, distributed in 90% from the urban
environment and 33% from the rural one. This work presents a case study referring to a 3 month
(AprilMay-June 2011) monitoring of weekly samples of the quality of well water (10 samples)
from Tureni village, Cluj County. A portable multi parameter model WTW 720 Germany was
used to measure the pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), temperature,
oxidation-reduction potential and salinity of the collected water samples (these tests were done
on site). In laboratory, using the photometric method (RQ Flex instrument, Merck) we
determined: Ca2+, Mg2+, SO42-, Cl- and NO3-.

6
 SriniwasKushtagi and PadakiSriniwas., (2011) carried out studies on water quality
index of Groundwater of Aland taluka, Gulbarga(INDIA)states that main aim of the current work
is to evaluate the quality of well water for rural and urban population based on W.Q.I. results,
groundwater characteristics and quality assessment .Ten villages of Aland taluka are selected and
at each village water samples at three places were collected using standard procedural methods
and analyzed for pH, TH, Ca, Mg, CL, TDS, Fe, F, NO3,SO4 . BIS-10500-1991 standards were
adopted for calculation of water quality index.

P. J. Puri , M. K. N. Yenkie et al.,(2011) have studied water quality index (WQI) has
been calculated for different surface water resources especially lakes, in Nagpur city,
Maharashtra (India), for the session January to December 2008; comprising of three seasons,
summer, winter and rainy season. Sampling points were selected on the basis of their
importance. Water quality index was calculated using water quality index calculator given by
National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) information system. The calculated (WQI) for various
studied lakes showed fair water quality in monsoon season which then changed to medium in
winter and poor for summer season. Gorewada lake showed medium water quality rating in all
season except monsoon season. Futala, Ambazari and Gandhisagar lake has also declined in
aesthetic quality over past decade following invasion of aquatic weeds such as hydrilla and water
primrose, so the reasons to import water quality change and measures to be taken up in terms of
surface water (lakes) quality management are required.

Adetunde L.A.et al., (2011) have studied the area and investigated Physicochemical and
bacteriological qualities of well water in the Ogbomoso North areas and South local government
areas of Oyo State, Nigeria. Water samples were collected from 20 hand dug wells in the
Ogbomoso North and 20 hand-dug wells in the Ogbomoso South local areas. The results showed
that most of the physical and chemical parameters were within the acceptable guide line limits of
the WHO for drinking and domestic water. The well water is mostly soft, alkalinity ranged from
30- 390mg/l and 40- 236mg/l for North and South respectively. pH ranged between 6.2-8.8 in
both areas, SO42- and CL- ions concentrations fell within WHO set standards. Hardness ranged
between 40- 504mg/l and 60 to 384mg/l for North and South areas respectively. Well water in
some areas is moderately hard to very hard. Such microbial contamination posed a threat to well
water quality and could lead to an increase risk level of outbreak of water borne diseases in the
two local government areas of Oyo State.

7
 Shivasharanappa, Padaki et al., (2011) carried out research work on Bidar city
(Karnataka) for their characteristics of ground water and Water quality index (W.Q.I.). This
research work deals with revaluation of W.Q.I. for ground.

K. Elangovan., (2010) carried out characteristics of tube well water for district Erode
(India) states that ground water quality of 60 locations in Erode district during pre- monsoon and
postmonsoon seasons. Ground water samples were tested for 11 physico-chemical parameters
following the standard methods and procedures. World Health Organization (WHO) standards
were adopted for calculation of water quality index (WQI) byusing the methods proposed by
Horton and modified by Tiwari and Mishra.

GuptaN.C. et al., (2010) carried outPhysico-Chemical analysis of drinking water

quality from 32 locations in Delhi. Delhi is an old town, which has gradually
grown into a popular city. It is one of the important business centers of India and thickly
populated as well (Gupta et al). Since the last decade, drinking water problem has created
havoc in thecity. In this study, we collected 32 drinking water samples throughout Delhi.
Different parameters were examined using Indian Standards to find out their suitability for
drinking purposes. During this examination mainly the physic chemical parameters were
taken into consideration.
Priti Singh et al., (2010) he assess and map the spatial distribution of ground water
quality of the Dhankawadi ward, pune by using GIS.APHA’s standard laboratory procedure
has been adopted to assess the quality of ground water. The spatial distribution map of pH,
Chlorides, Magnesium and Sulphate shows that, these parameters are within range as per
standard.TDS and Nitrate concentrations in ground water of the study area exceed the
permissible limit at central location at katraj dairy near katraj,Pune.

PremlataVikal (2009) has been work out the physico-chemical characteristics of the
Pichhola lake water. He studied various parameters like air and water temperature, pH, free CO2,
dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, conductivity, total
dissolved solids, hardness, total alkalinity, chloride, nitrate, phosphate and sulphate. The results
revealed that the values of conductivity, COD, and sulphate were found to cross the standard
limits in water samples. The coefficient of correlation (r) among various physicochemical
parameters was also made.

8
 Gupta et al., (2009) were analyzed water samples from 20 sampling points of Kaithal for
their physicochemical characteristics. Analysis of samples for pH, Colour, Odour, Hardness,
Chloride, Alkalinity, TDS etc. On comparing the results against drinking water quality standards
laid by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and World Health Organization (WHO), it
is found that some of the water samples are non-potable for human being due to high
concentration of one or the other parameter. Thus an attempt has been made to find the quality of
ground water in and around Kaithal City town, suitable for drinking purposes or not.
Basawarajsimpi et al.(2011) studied monthly changes in various physic chemical parameters of
Hosahalli water tank in shimoga district Karnataka. Study shows that all parameters are within
the limit and tank water non polluted and it can be used for domestic, irrigation and fishery
purpose.

ChidanandPatil et al., (2008)carried out Physical, chemical, bacteriological analysis of

water samples from seven bore wells located around landfill site at Turmuri, Belgaum to
ascertain the magnitude of dumpsite pollution on groundwater quality. During the study period,
7 bore wells were selected around the landfill area at a distance of 500, 750 and 1000m.The
parameters analyzed during the study period were pH, Total dissolved solids(TDS),Total
Hardness, Nitrate, Most Probable Number (MPN) and heavy metal such as Lead using standard
laboratory procedures. The pH ranged from 6.01 to 7.3 indicating acidic in nature in the month
of Feb and March, but in the month of April and may all the wells within the levels.

P. ThillaiArasu et al., (2007) studied the physico-chemical parameters measured at

sixteen locations of the river body revealed that the riparian water pollution has not exceeded
the set limit of the standards. Thus the study reassures the stake holders of the river basin its
suitability for irrigation and industrial purposes and also its safe use for human consumption,
of course with appropriate disinfection (in the absence of investigation on the biological
parameters) throughout the stretch of the investigated points during the study period.
However, the investigators reiterate the need for continued monitoring of the common
property resource under strict water quality surveillance to ensure for the health and
environmental safety of the river basin stakeholders. So that the present study reveals that the
Tamirabarani river water is suitable for industrial and civic purposes.

G. Achuthan Nair et al., (2006) carried out ground water quality status by water
quality index at North –East Libya The quality ofgroundwater was assessed to their
suitability for drinking at six places of north-east Libya viz. El-MarjAlbayda, Shahat,

9
Susa,Ras al-Hilal and Derna, during November, 2003 to March, 2004,by determining their
physicochemical parameters (17 parameters) and water quality index (15 parameters).
Peoples of Libya are aware for ground water quality and purity level and present study will
be use full for maintaining the desired levels.

DeyKallol et al., (2005) studied various physio-chemical parameters on the samples

drawn from the river Koel, Shankha and Brahmani. It was observed that dilution during rainy
season decreases the metal concentration level to a considerable extent. However the enrichment
of these metals by bio-magnification and bioaccumulation in edible components produced in
water is accepted to produce a remarkable effect on the water of the river Brahamani which is of
deep public concern.

10
 CHAPTER-3

STUDY AREA
3.1 GENERAL
Adyar River starts from Malaipattu tank near Manimangalam village in
SriperumbudurTaluk at about 15 kilometres west of Tambaram near Chennai. It starts to
appear as a stream only from the point where water from Chembarambakkam Lake joins the
river. It flows through Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur and Chennai district for about 42.5
kilometres before joining the Bay of Bengal in Adyar, Chennai. Here it forms an estuary,
which extends from the Adyar Bridge to the sandbar at the edge of the sea, with some small
islets in-between. The estuary attracts a wide variety of birds. The estuary covering an area
of about 120 hectares was made a protected wildlife reserve in 1987. The river forms a
backwater near the mouth, known as the Adyar creek, due to the formation of sand bar at the
mouth. This creek is a natural channel which carries tidal water back into the sea.Despite the
high pollution levels, boating and fishing take place in this river. The river collects surplus
water from about 200 tanks and lakes, small streams and the rainwater drains in the city,
with a combined catchment area of 860 square kilometres. Most of the waste from the city is
drained into this river and the Cooum.

Figure 3.1 Study area map of Adyar River

11
 Table 3.1 Sample locations with latitude and longitude

SAMPLES LOCATIONS LATITUDE LONGITUDE

Sample 1 ADYAR RIVER BRIBGE, NANDAMBAKKAM 13.019 80.186
Sample 2 BURMA COLONY, EKKATUTHANGAL 13.028 80.197
Sample 3 VASUEVAN NAGAR, WEST JAFFERKHANPET 13.027 80.207
Sample 4 DURAI SAMY GARDEN, WEST SAIDAPET 13.021 80.211
Sample 5 CUSTOM COLONY, WEST SAIDAPET 13.017 80.217
Sample 6 ABITH COLONY MAIN ROAD, WEST SAIDAPET 13.016 80.220
Sample 7 GOTHAMEDU HOUSING BOARD, NANDANAM 13.017 80.225
Sample 8 SURYA NAGAR, KOTTURPURAM 13.021 80.237
Sample 9 CHITRA NAGAR, KOTTURPURAM 13.025 80.243
Sample 10 RIVER VIEW ROAD, ADYAR HOUSE 13.023 80.246
Sample 11 VARADAPURAM, NANDANAM 13.020 80.247
Sample 12 GANDI NAGAR, ADYAR 13.017 80.249
Sample 13 THIDDEER NAGAR, RAJA ANNAMALAINAGAR 13.019 80.249
Sample 14 ANNA SATHYA NAGAR, SOUTH KESAVA PURAM 13.016 80.253
Sample 15 ADYAR THIRU VIKA BRIDGE, SBI COLONY 13.014 80.259

Figure 3.2 Sample locations map of Adyar river

12
 CHAPTER-4

METHODOLOGY
4.1 GENERAL

The methodology of the experimental work described as shown in flow chart.

Literature Review

Delineating Study Area Boundary

Data Collection

Spatial Data Non-Spatial Data

Obtaining Sampling Point
Location using GPS
Create Sampling Location
in Google Earth and
Import to Arc GIS
Sample Collection
Physico-Chemical
Analysis of Surface Water
Spatial andnon-
spatial data join Compare The Result with
BIS

Generating Thematic Maps for Individual Water Quality Parameter

Spatial Distribution of Surface Water Quality

Figure 4.1 Methodology Flowchart

13
 CHAPTER 5
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY

5.1 PARAMETERS

5.1.1 pH:

1. Perform calibration of the pH meter using standard pHsolutions. The calibration

2. procedure would depend on the pH range of interest.

3. In a clean dry 100 mL beaker take the water sample and place it in a magnetic stirrer,
insert the teflon coated stirring bar and stir well.

4. Now place the electrode in the beaker containing the water sample and check for the
reading in the pHmeter. Wait until you get a stable reading.

5. Take the electrode from the water sample, wash it with distilled water and then wipe
gently with soft tissue.

5.1.2 TOTAL SOLID

1. A clean porcelain dish ignited in muffied furnace and after partial cooling in
the air, it is cooled in a desiccator and weighed.

2. A 10ml of sample is placed in a dish and evaporated at 1000c in water bath

followed by drying in oven at 1030c for four hours.

3. Dry to a constant weight at 1300c cool desiccator and weighed.

5.1.3 TOTAL DISSOLED SOLID

1. A clean porcelain dish ignited in muffied furnace and after partial cooling in
the air,it is cooled in a desiccator and weighed.

2. A 10ml of filtered sample is placed in a dish and evaporated at 1000c in water

bath followed by drying in oven at 1030c for four hours.

3. Dry to a constant weight at 1300c cool desiccator and weighed.

14
5.1.4 ALKALINITY

1. Measure50 ml or 100 ml of your sample into a 250 mL beaker or erlenmyer

flask. Place your sample onto a stir plate (make sure to put a bar magnet in the
flask).

2. Measure initial pH of your sample. If the sample pH is below 8.3 (if above
8.3, do first), add several drops of bromcresol green indicator. If the colour of
the solution turned blue, titrate your sample with 0.02 N H2SO4 or HCl (you
may need to dilute the acid provided in the lab) until the colour changes to
yellow (pH 4.5). Record the total volume of acid used for the titration.

3. Measure initial pH of your sample. If the sample pH is above 8.3, add several
drops of phenolphthalein indicator. If the colour of the solution turned pink,
titrate your sample with 0.02 N H2SO4 or HCl (you may need to dilute the acid
provided in the lab) until colour changes from pink to clear (pH 8.3). Record
the volume of acid used for the titration. Then, proceed with step 2.

4. Calculate both Phenolphthalein Alkalinity and Total Alkalinity using the

formula provided above.

5.1.5 HARDNESS

1. Place about half a gram of calcium carbonate in a sample vial and weigh the
vial on the analytical balance. Carefullypour between 0.20 to 0.25 g of the
carbonate to a 250-ml beaker and weigh the vial again. Determine the mass of
the CaCO3 sample to 0.1 mgby difference.

2. Add about 25 mL of distilled water to the beaker and slowly add ~40 drops of
6 MHC1. Allow the reaction to proceed until all of the solid carbonate has
dissolved. Rinse the walls of the beaker with distilled water from a wash bottle
and heat the solution until it just begins to boil. Be sure not to be confused by
the evolution of CO2 which occurs with the boiling. Add 50 mL of distilled
water to the beaker and carefullytransfer the solution to a 250-ML volumetric
flask. Rinse the beaker several times with small portions of distilled water
and transfer each portion to the flask. All of the Ca2+originally in the beaker
should then be in the volumetric flask. Fill the volumetric flask to the

15
 horizontal mark with distilled water, adding the last few mL with a disposable
pipet. Stopper the flask and mix the solution thoroughly by inverting the flask
at least 20 times over a period of several minutes.

3. Rinse a 50-mL buret thoroughly with a few mLs of ~0.01M EDTA solution.
Drainthrough the stopcock and then fill the buret with the EDTA solution.

4. Make a blank by adding 25 mL distilled water (pipet) and 5 mL of pH10

buffer(graduated cylinder) to a 250-mL Erlenmeyer flask. Add a small amount
of solid Eriochrome Black T indicator mixture from the container. You need
only a small portion,about 25 mg, just enough to cover then end of a small
spatula. The solution should turn blue; if the color is weak, add a bit more
indicator. Add 15 drops of 0.03 MMgCl2, which should contain enough Mg2+
to turn the solution wine red. Read the buret to 0.01 mL and add EDTA to the
solution until the last tinge of purple just disappears.The color change is rather
slow, so titrate slowly near the end point. Only a few mLs will be needed to
titrate the blank. Read the buret again to determine the volume required for the
blank. This volume must be subtracted from the total EDTA volume used in
each titration. Save the solution as a reference for the end point in all your
titrations.

5. Pipet three 25 mL portions of the Ca2+ solution in the volumetric flask into
three clean 250-mL Erlenmeyer flasks. To each flask add 5 mL of the pH 10
buffer, a small amount of indicator (as with the blank), and 15 drops of 0.03 M
MgCl2. Titrate the solution in one of the flasks until its color matches that of
your reference solution; the end point is a reasonably good one, and you
should be able to hit it within a few drops if you are careful. Read the buret.
Refill the buret, read it, and titrate the second solution, then the third.

6. Obtain a sample of water for hardness analysis. Since the concentration of

Ca2+ isprobably lower than that in the standard calcium solution you
prepared, pipet 50 mL of the water sample for each titration. As before, add
some indicator, 5 mL of pH 10 buffer,and 15 drops of 0.03 M MgCl2 before
titrating. Carry out as many titrations as necessary to obtain two volumes of
EDTA that agree within about 3%. If the volume of EDTA required in the first
titration is low due to the fact that the water is not very hard, increase the

16
 volume of the water sample so that in succeeding titrations, it takes at least 20
mL of EDTA to reach the end point.

5.1.6 CHLORIDES

TITRATION I

1. Standardization of AgNo3.The burette is washed well with dist. Water and

rinsed with small amount of AgNo3.

2. It is then filled with the same solution of upto zero mark without air
bubbles.

3. The pipetted is washed with distilled water and rinsed with small amount
of standard Nacl.

4. 20ml of this solution is pipetted out in a clean conical flask.

5. 1ml of 2% of Cro4 indicator is added and titrated against Agno3 solution

taken in the burette.

6. The titration is repeated for concordant values.

TITRATION II

1. Estimation of chloride ion.

2. 20ml of given water sample is pipetted out in a clean conical flask and
1ml of 2% of K2Cro4 indicator is added.

3. It is then titrated against Agno3 solution taken in the burette.

4. The end point is change of color from yellow to reddish brown.

5.1.7 PHOSPHATE

Glassware should be washed thoroughly with hot water followed by rinsing

with distilled water. Do not use phosphate containing detergents to clean equipment
for this experiment.

17
 Preparation of Standard Solutions: Prepare a 5 point calibration curve with
concentrations ranging from 0 – 5mg/L Phosphate (including blank) from the
provided stock standard solution.

The standard solutions and the blank will now be treated according to the
following “color development” procedure. After measuring the absorbances of these
solutions , make a plot of absorbance versus concentration.

Colour Development in Sample

Follow this procedure for your standard solutions, your blank, and your water
samples.

Place in an Erlenmeyer flask 25mL (measured with a volumetric pipet) of the

water sample to be analysed. Put 1.0mL (with a pipet) of ammonium solution into a
flask and swirl to mix. Before proceeding make sure you are familiar with the use of
the Spec 20. Next, to the flask add two drops of stannous chloride solution and mix
by swirling. If phosphate is present, a blue colour will develop in a maximum of five
minutes.

The time period is somewhat critical. Measurements should be taken

anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes after addition of stannous chloride.

While you are waiting for the blue colour to develop, set the wavelength to
650nm. Use the blank to set the zero absorbance. Using the 650nm wavelength,
measure the absorbance of the blue sample.

Waste disposal:

All solutions may be dumped down the drain.

5.1.8 IRON

Part I: preparation of standards (steps 1 and 2 may have been done by the
instructor)

1. Dissolve 0.7022 grams of ferrous ammonium sulphate, hexahydrate in

distilled water. Dilute to 1.00 L. This solution is 100 mg/L Fe +2 (same as 100
ppm).

18
 2. Prepare standard solutions of 0.0, 2.0, 4.0, 6.0, and 8.0 ppm by respectively
diluting 0.0, 2.0, 4.0, 6.0, and 8.0 mL of the 100 ppm stock solution into five
separate 100.0 mL volumetric flasks. To each flask add 5 mL of a 0.25%
ortho-phenanthrolinesolution. Dilute with deionized water to 100.0 mL.
3. Clean and dry a set of cuvets.
4. Label the cuvets 0ppm (or blank), 2.0ppm, 4.0ppm, 6.0ppm, 8.0ppm.
5. Fill each cuvet with the appropriate solution.
Part II: Preparation of the unknown

1. Obtain an unknown sample from the instructor or prepare your own

unknownusing a collected water sample.
2. If using a collected water sample, add 5 mL of the 0.25% ortho-phenanthroline
solution to a 100.00 mL volumetric flask. Dilute to mark with collected water
sample.

Part III: forming the standard curve

1. Turn on the spectrophotometer. Press theA/T/C button on the Spec 20

Genesys to select absorbance.
2. Adjust the wavelength to 510 nm by pressing the nm arrow up or down.
3. Insert the blank (0ppm) into the cell holder and close the door. Position the
cell so that the light passes through clear walls. *Remember to wipe off the
cuvet with a Kimwipe before inserting it into the instrument.
4. Press0 ABS/100% Tto set the blank to 0 absorbance.
5. Record the absorbance of the 0ppm solution. Obtain absorbance readings for
each of the other standard solutions.
6. If using a collected water sample as an unknown, use collected water without
the 0.25% ortho-phenanthroline solution as the blank and re-zero the
absorbance. If not, proceed to the next step.
7. Obtain an absorbance reading for the unknown sample.
8. Make a graph of Concentration (x-axis) vs. absorbance (y-axis).
9. From the standard curve, determine the concentration of iron in this unknown
sample.

19
 5.1.9 NITRATE

1. Fill the sample bottle with sample water. Use gloves if drawing the sample by
hand.

2. Rinse and fill one test tube to the 2.5 mL line with water from the sample
bottle.

3. Dilute to the 5 mL line with the Mixed Acid Reagent. Cap and mix. Wait 2
minutes.

4. Use the 0.1 g spoon to add one level measure (avoid any 50-60 times in one
minute). Wait 10minutes.

5. Insert the test tube into the Nitrate Nitrogen Comparator. Match the sample
colour to a colour standard. Record the result as mg/L(ppm) Nitrate Nitrogen
(NO3-N). To convert to mg/Nitrate(NO3)multiplyby4.4.

Place the reacted sample in a clearly marked container. Arrangements should be made with
toxic material handlers for safe disposal. Please wash your hands after this water
testiscompleted.

5.1.10 COD

1. 2ml of waste water sample +2ml of standard potassium dichromate+4ml of

concentrated H2SO4.

2. Keep in cod digestion apparatus at 1500c for 2 hours.

3. Cool and made it to 20ml with distilled water. Add few drops of ferroin
indicator get bluish Colour.

5.1.11 BOD

1. Place the desired volume of distilled water in a 5 litres flask (usually about 3
litres of distilled water will be needed for each sample).
2. Add 1ml, each of phosphate buffer, magnesium sulphate solution, calcium
chloride solution and ferric chloride solution for every litre of distilled water.
3. Seed the sample with 2ml, of settled domestic sewage.

20
4. Saturate the dilution water in flask by aeration with a supply of clean
compressed air for at least 30 minutes.
5. Highly alkaline acidic samples should be neutralised to pH 7.
6. Destroy the chlorine residual in the sample by keeping the samples exposed to
air for 1 to 2 hours or by adding a few mL of sodium sulphite solution.
7. Take the sample in the required concentrations. The following concentrations
are suggested:
Strong industrial waste : 0.1, 0.5 and 1 per cent
Raw and settled sewage : 1.0, 2.5 and 5 per cent
Oxidised effluents : 5, 12.5 and 25 per cent
Polluted river water : 25, 50 and 100 per cent
8. Add the required quantity of sample (calculate for 650 ml dilution water the
required quantity of samples for a particular concentration) into a 1000ml of
measuring cylinder. Add the dilution water up the 650ml mark.
9. Mix the contents in the measuring cylinder.
10. Add this solution into two BOD bottles. Keep one for incubation and the other
for determination of initial dissolved in the mixture.
11. Prepare in the same manner for other concentration and for all other samples.
12. Lastly fill the dilution water alone into two BOD bottles. Keep one for
incubation and the other for determination of initial dissolved oxygen.
13. Place the set of bottles to be incubated in a BOD incubator for 5 days at 20 ͦ C.
Care should be taken to maintain the water seal over the bottles throughout the
period of incubation.
14. Determine the initial dissolved oxygen content in the other set of bottles and
note down the results.
15. Determine the dissolved oxygen content in the incubated bottles at the end of
5 days and note down the results.
16. Calculate the BOD of the given sample.

21
 Table 5.1 Sample Location / Parameters with Permissible Limits (BIS)

PH TDS Hardne Chlori Fluori Iron Nitrat Turbidi EC

SL.N SAMPLE LOCATION Alkalini Ammon Nitrite(mg Phospha
(mg/ (mg/ ss de de (mg/ e ty (µS/C
O. / PARAMETERS ty (mg/l) ia (mg/l) /l) te (mg/l)
l) l) (mg/l) (mg/l) (mg/l) l) (mg/l) (NTU) M)
1 ADYAR RIVER
BRIBGE, 7 1464 450 470 300 1.5 0.3 3 0.2 20 0.5 19 2.98
2 BURMA COLONY,
NANDAMBAKKAM
EKKATUTHANGAL 6.5 1776 480 400 600 2 2 5 0.2 20 0.5 49.8 3.06
3 VASUDEVAN
NAGAR, WEST 7 1740 650 400 400 1.5 0.3 5 0.2 45 1 62 3.1
4 DHURAISAMY
JAFFERKHANPET
GARDE, WEST 7 1716 700 450 280 2 1 5 0.2 20 0.5 115.2 3.11
5 CUSTOM
SAIDAPETCOLONY,
WEST SAIDHAPET 7 1416 470 400 310 2 0 5 0.2 20 0.5 33.2 3.37
6 ABITH COLONY
MAIN ROAD, WEST 7 1620 550 400 400 1.5 0 5 0.2 20 0.5 4.3 3.23
7 GOTHAMEDU
SAIDHAPET
HOUSING BOARD, 7 1632 560 400 400 1.5 0 5 0.2 20 0.5 BDL 3.1
8 SURYA NAGAR,
NANDANAM
KOTTURPURAM 7 1656 580 400 400 1.5 0 5 0.2 20 0.5 1.5 3.15
9 CHITRA NAGAR,
KOTTURPURAM 7 1428 500 330 360 1.5 0.3 5 0.2 20 0.5 BDL 3.54
10 RIVER VIEW ROAD,
ADYAR HOUSE 7 1584 400 400 520 1.5 0 5 0.2 20 0.5 1.3 3.18
11 RIVER VIEW ROAD,
VARADAPURAM, 7 1464 470 340 410 1.5 0.3 5 0.23 20 0.5 2.9 3.86
12 GANDHI
NANDANAMNAGAR,
ADYAR 7 1368 510 380 250 1.5 1 5 0.2 20 0.5 15.2 4
13 THIDEER NAGAR,
RAJA ANNAMALAI 7 1440 490 320 390 1.5 0 5 0.2 20 0.5 4.5 3.5
14 ANNA
PURAMSATHYA
NAGAR, SOUTH 7 1848 590 480 470 1.5 2 5 0.2 20 0.5 31.7 4.7
15 THIRU
KESAVAVIPURAM
KA
BRIDGE, SBI 7 2484 600 620 850 2 3 5 0 20 0.5 26.4 8.12
COLONY

PERMISSIBLE 6.5- 500- 200-600 250- 0.3- 0.5 45-

LIMITS (BIS) 8.5 2000 300-600 1000 1.0-1.5 1.4 0.5 100 0.2-1.4 10 1.5-3

22
 Table 5.2 Sample Location / Parameters with Permissible Limits (BIS)

SL.NO. SAMPLE LOCATION / PARAMETERS DO (mg/l) COD(mg/l) BOD(mg/l)

1 ADYAR RIVER BRIBGE, NANDAMBAKKAM 6.6 (mg/l)
88 (mg/l)
42.6
2 BURMA COLONY, EKKATUTHANGAL 6.8 92 45
3 VASUDEVAN NAGAR, WEST JAFFERKHANPET 2.6 48 82.
46.2
4 DHURAISAMY GARDE, WEST SAIDAPET 2.5 112 22.8
5 CUSTOM COLONY, WEST SAIDHAPET 8.3 118 24
6 ABITH COLONY MAIN ROAD, WEST SAIDHAPET 1.5 112 24.6
7 GOTHAMEDU HOUSING BOARD, NANDANAM 5.6 104 24
8 SURYA NAGAR, KOTTURPURAM 8 56 73.8
9 CHITRA NAGAR, KOTTURPURAM 4.7 32 29.4
10 RIVER VIEW ROAD, ADYAR HOUSE 1.3 64 31.2
11 RIVER VIEW ROAD, VARADAPURAM, NANDANAM 2.9 84 57
12 GANDHI NAGAR, ADYAR 1.2 80 40.2
13 THIDEER NAGAR, RAJA ANNAMALAI PURAM 7.1 112 46.8
14 ANNA SATHYA NAGAR, SOUTH KESAVA PURAM 1.8 80 18
15 THIRU VI KA BRIDGE, SBI COLONY 7.4 108 23.4

PERMISSIBLE LIMITS (BIS) 250 30

23
 5.2 GRAPHICAL REPRESENTATION CHART FOR SAMPLE
LOCATION AND PARAMETERS
5.2.1 pH

pH is a numerical scale used to specify the acidity or basicity (alkalinity) of an

aqueous solution. Solutions with a pH less than 7 are acidic and solutions with a pH greater
than 7 are basic. Pure water is neutral, being neither an acid nor a base. The pH value ranged
from 6.5-7. Permissible Limits of pH is 6.5-8.5.

pH (mg/l)

7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7
7
6.9
6.8
6.7
pH

6.6 6.5
6.5
6.4
6.3
6.2

SAMPLE LOCATION

Figure 5.3 Graphical Representation of PH

24
5.2.2 Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)

A total dissolved solids (TDS) is concentration of all dissolved minerals in water.

Concentration of dissolved solids is important parameter in drinking water to suitability of
groundwater for any purpose, it is essential to classify the groundwater depending upon its
hydro chemical properties based on total dissolved solids values. In our study TDS ranges
from 1368mg/l to 2484mg/l. Permissible Limits of TDS is 500-2000 mg/l.

TDS (mg/l)

2484
2500
1776 1740 1716 1848
2000 1620 1632 1656 1584 1464
1464 1416 1428 1368 1440
1500
TDS

1000
500
0

SAMPLE LOCATION

Figure 5.4 Graphical Representation of TDS

25
5.2.3 Alkalinity

Alkalinity is the name given to the quantitative capacity of an aqueous solution to

neutralized an acid. Measuring alkalinity is important in determining a streams ability to
neutralize acidic pollution from rainfall or waste water. Alkalinity range from 400mg/l to
600mg/l. Permissible Limits of alkalinity is 200-600 mg/l.

Alkalinity (mg/l)

700
700
650

590 600
600 580
550 560

500 510
480 490
500 470 470
450

400
ALKALINITY

400

300

200

100

SAMPLE LOCATION
Figure 5.5 Graphical Representation of Alkalinity

26
5.2.4 Hardness

Hardness is defined as the concentration of calcium and magnesium ions expressed in

terms of calcium carbonate (CaCo3) concentrations. In our study hardness ranges from
320mg/l to 620mg/l. Permissible Limits of Total Hardness is 330-600.

Hardness (mg/l)
700
620
600
470 480
500 450
HARDNESS

400 400 400 400 400 400 400 380

400 330 340 320
300

200

100

SAMPLE LOCATION

Figure 5.6 Graphical Representation of Hardness

27
5.2.5 Chloride
Chloride occurs in all natural waters in widely varying concentrations. The
chlorides content normally increase as the minerals content increase. Concentration
above 250mg/l, water acquire salty taste which is objectionable. However no adverse
health affects on humans have been reported from intake of water containing highest
content of chloride. In our study chloride ranges from 250mg/l to 850mg/l.
Permissible Limits of chloride is 250-1000mg/l.

Chloride (mg/l)
900 850

800
700
600
600 520
CHLORIDE

470
500 410
400 400 400 400 390
360
400 310
300 280
300 250

200
100
0

SAMPLE LOCATION

Figure 5.7 Graphical Representation of Chloride

28
5.2.6 Fluoride
Groundwater usually contains fluoride dissolved by geological formation. The
desirable limits of fluoride is 1-1.5mg/l. beyond this limit the water is considered as
poor quality. The high concentration of fluoride is due to fertilizer usage in
agricultural activities for killing insects. In our study fluoride ranges from 1.5mg/l to
2mg/l. Permissible Limits of fluoride is 1.0-1.5 mg/l.

Fluoride (mg/l)
2 2 2 2
2
1.8
1.6 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5

1.4
FLUORIDE

1.2
1
0.8
0.6
0.4
0.2
0

SAMPLE LOCATION

Figure 5.8 Graphical Representation of Fluoride

29
5.2.7 Iron
Iron is a common metallic element found in earth crust. Iron can affect the
flavour and colour of food and water. Iron is a biologically important element which
is essential to all the organisms and present in haemoglobin system. In our study iron
content ranges from 0 to 3mg/l. Permissible Limits of iron is 0.3-1.0 mg/l.

Iron (mg/l)
3
3

2.5
2 2
2
IRON

1.5
1 1
1

0.5 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3

0 0 0 0 0 0
0

SAMPLE LOCATION

Figure 5.9 Graphical Representation of Iron

30
5.2.8 Ammonia
Ammonia is a colourless gas with a characteristic pungent smell. It is a
common nitrogenous waste, particularly among aquatic organisms, and it contributes
significantly to the nutritional needs of terrestrial organisms by serving as a precursor
to food and fertilizers. Ammonia, either directly or indirectly, is also a building block
for the synthesis of many pharmaceutical products and is used in many commercial
cleaning products. In our study Ammonia content ranges from 3 to 5mg/l. Permissible
Limits of Ammonia is 0.5 mg/l.

Ammonia (mg/l)
5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
5
4.5
4
3.5
3
AMMONIA

3
2.5
2
1.5
1
0.5
0

SAMPLE LOCATION

Figure 5.10 Graphical Representation of Ammonia

31
5.2.9 Nitrite
Nitrite can be oxidized or reduced, with the product somewhat dependent on
the oxidizing/reducing agent and its strength. Nitrite is also important in biochemistry as a
source of the potent vasodilator nitric oxide. Nitrites are also used in the food production
industry for curing meat. Nitrate or nitrite (ingested) under conditions that result in
endogenous nitrosation has been classified as "Probably carcinogenic to humans" (Group 2A)
by International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the specialized cancer agency of the
World Health Organization (WHO). In our study Nitrite content ranges from 0 to
0.23mg/l. Permissible Limits of Nitrite is 0.5 mg/l.

Nitrite (mg/l)
0.25 0.23

0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2
0.2
NITRITE

0.15

0.1

0.05

0
0

SAMPLE LOCATION

Figure 5.11 Graphical Representation of Nitrite

32
5.2.10 Nitrate
It is made up of one nitrogen and three oxygen atoms. It is part of many
important molecules. Nitrates are similar to nitrites. Many metal nitrates with thermal
decomposition makes oxygen and metal nitrate. In our study Nitrate content ranges
from 20 to 45mg/l. Permissible Limits of Nitrate is 45-100 mg/l.

Nitrate (mg/l)
45
45

40

35

30
NITRATE

25
20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20
20

15

10

SAMPLE LOCATION

Figure 5.12 Graphical Representation of Nitrate

33
5.2.11 Phosphate
Phosphate occurs naturally in rocks and other minerals deposits. During the
natural process of weathering the rock gradually release the phosphorus as phosphate
ions which are soluble in water and the mineralize phosphate compounds break down.
In our study phosphate range from 1 to 0.5mg/l. Permissible Limits of phosphate is
0.2-1.4 mg/l.

Phosphate (mg/l)
1
1
0.9
0.8
0.7
PHOSPHATE

0.6 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5
0.5
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.1
0

SAMPLE LOCATION

Figure 5.13 Graphical Representation of Phosphate

34
5.2.12 Turbidity
Turbidity is the cloudiness or haziness of a fluid caused by large numbers of
individual particles that are generally invisible to the naked eye, similar to smoke in
air. The measurement of turbidity is a key test of water quality. Fluids can contain
suspended solid matter consisting of particles of many different sizes. Turbidity (or
haze) is also applied to transparent solids such as glass or plastic. In plastic
production, haze is defined as the percentage of light that is deflected more than 2.5°
from the incoming light direction. In our study Turbidity range from BDL to
49.8NTU. Permissible Limits of Turbidity is 10 NTU.

Turbidity (NTU)
115.2
120

100

80
TURBIDITY

62
60 49.8

40 33.2 31.7
26.4
19
15.2
20
4.3 4.5
BDL 1.5 BDL 1.3 2.9
0

SAMPLE LOCATION

Figure 5.14 Graphical Representation of Turbidity

35
5.2.13 Electrical Conductivity (EC)
Electrical Conductivity is a measure of capacity of a substance to conduct the
electric current. Most of the salts in water are present in their ionic form and capable
of conducting current and conductivity is a good indicator to assess groundwater
quality. EC is very useful parameter for water quality indicating salinity hazards. In
our study conductivity ranged from 2.98µS/CM to 8.12µS/CM. Permissible Limits of
Electrical Conductivity is 1.5-3µS/cm.

Electrical Conductivity (µS/CM)

9 8.12
ELECTRICAL CINDUCTIVITY

8
7
6
4.7
5
3.86 4
4 3.37 3.23 3.1 3.15 3.54 3.18 3.5
2.98 3.06 3.1 3.11
3
2
1
0

SAMPLE LOCATION

Figure 5.15 Graphical Representation of EC

36
 5.2.14 Dissolved Oxygen (DO)
Dissolved oxygen refers to the level of free, non-compound oxygen present in
water or other liquids. It is an important parameter in assessing water quality because
of its influence on the organisms living within a body of water. A dissolved oxygen
level that is too high or too low can harm aquatic life and affect water quality. Non-
compound oxygen, or free oxygen (O2), is oxygen that is not bonded to any other
element. Dissolved oxygen is the presence of these free O2 molecules within water.
The bonded oxygen molecule in water (H2O) is in a compound and does not count
toward dissolved oxygen levels. One can imagine that free oxygen molecules dissolve
in water much the way salt or sugar does when it is stirred. In our study DO range
from 1.3 to 8.3mg/l.

Dissolved Oxygen (mg/l)

9 8.3
8
8 7.4
7.1
6.6 6.8
DISSOLVED OXYGEN

7
6 5.6
4.7
5
4
2.9
3 2.6 2.5
1.8
2 1.5 1.3 1.2
1
0

SAMPLE LOCATION

Figure 5.16 Graphical Representation of DO

37
5.2.15 Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD)
Chemical oxygen demand (COD) is an indicative measure of the amount of
oxygen that can be consumed by reactions in a measured solution. It is commonly
expressed in mass of oxygen consumed over volume of solution which in SI units is
milligrams per litre (mg/L). A COD test can be used to easily quantify the amount of
organics in water. The most common application of COD is in quantifying the amount
of oxidizable pollutants found in surface water (e.g. lakes and rivers) or wastewater.In
our study COD range from 32 to 118mg/l. Permissible Limits of COD is 250 mg/l.

COD (mg/l)
118
120 112 112 112
108
104
100 92
88
84
80 80
80
64
COD

56
60 48

40 32

20

SAMPLE LOCATION

Figure 5.17 Graphical Representation of COD

38
 5.2.16Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)
Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) is the amount of DO needed by aerobic
biological organisms to break down organic material present in a given water sample
at certain temperature over a specific time period. In our study BOD range from 18 to
73.3mg/l. Permissible Limits of BOD is 30 mg/l.

BOD (mg/l)
80 73.8
70

60 57

50 45 46.2 46.8
42.6 40.2
B0D

40
29.4 31.2
30 22.8 24 24.6 24 23.4
18
20

10

SAMPLE LOCATION
Figure. 5.18 Graphical Representation of BOD

39
 5.3APPENDIX

Fig. 5.19 Thiru Vi Ka Bridge

Fig. 5.20 Nandhambakkam, Adyar River Bridge

40
Fig. 5.21 Thideer Nagar, Raja Annamalai Puram

Fig. 5.22 Gandhi Nagar, Adyar

41
Fig.5.23 Burma Colony, Ekkatuthangal

Fig.5.24 River View Road, Nandhanam

42
Fig.5.25 Anna Sathya Nagar, South Keasavapuram

Fig.5.26 Custom Colony, West Saidhapet

43
 Fig.5.27 Dissolved Oxygen (DO)

Fig. 5.28 Electrical Conductivity (EC)

44
Fig. 5.29 COD Digestion Apparatus

Fig. 5.30 BOD Incubator

45
 RESULTS AND DISCUSION

6.1POINT FEATURE OF SAMPLE LOCATION USING ARC GIS

Sample locations are obtained using GPS and the locations are imported to ArcGIS to
create point Feature.

Figure 6.1 Study Area Sample Location Point Feature Using GIS

46
6.2GENERATION OF THEMATIC MAPS OF WATER QUALITY
PRAMETERS
Thematic maps for individual water quality parameters are generated using Spatial
Interpolation Technique using ArcGIS.

6.2.1 Spatial Variation of pH along Adyar River

Figure 6.2 Spatial Variation of pH

47
6.2.2 Spatial Variation of TDS along Adyar River

Figure 6.3 Spatial Variation of TDS

48
6.2.3 Spatial Variation of Alkalinity along Adyar River

Figure 6.4 Spatial Variation of Alkalinity

49
6.2.4 Spatial Variation of Hardness along Adyar River

Figure 6.5 Spatial Variation of Hardness

50
6.2.5 Spatial Variation of Chloride along Adyar River

Figure 6.6 Spatial Variation of Chloride

51
6.2.6 Spatial Variation of Fluoride along Adyar River

Figure 6.7 Spatial Variation of Fluoride

52
6.2.7 Spatial Variation of Iron along Adyar River

Figure 6.8 Spatial Variation of Iron

53
`6.2.8 Spatial Variation of Ammonia along Adyar River

Figure 6.9 Spatial Variation of Ammonia

54
6.2.9 Spatial Variation of Nitrite along Adyar River

Figure 6.10 Spatial Variation of Nitrite

55
6.2.10 Spatial Variation of Nitrate along Adyar River

Figure 6.11 Spatial Variation of Nitrate

56
6.2.11 Spatial Variation of Phosphate along Adyar River

Figure 6.12 Spatial Variation of Phosphate

57
6.2.12 Spatial Variation of Turbidity along Adyar River

Figure 6.13 Spatial Variation of Turbidity

58
6.2.13 Spatial Variation of Electrical Conductivity along Adyar River

Figure 6.14 Spatial Variation of Electrical Conductivity

59
6.2.13 Spatial Variation of Dissolved Oxygen along Adyar River

Figure 6.15 Spatial Variation of DissolvedOxygen

60
6.2.14 Spatial Variation of Chemical Oxygen Demand along Adyar River

Figure 6.16 Spatial Variation of Chemical Oxygen Demand

61
6.2.15 Spatial Variation of Biochemical Oxygen Demand along Adyar River

Figure 6.17 Spatial Variation of Biochemical Oxygen Demand

62
 CHAPTER 7

CONCLUSION

The water quality parameters of Adyar River were studied for better understanding by
using the spatial analysis tools in ArcGIS software. The Spatial distribution of interpolated
maps of pH, DO, COD, BOD, Chloride and Hardness shows that these parameters are
exceeding the permissible limits at some places. This study has shown that the use of IDW
interpolation method by using of spatial analysis tools for assessment of water quality help us
for better mapping and management of water quality parameter. Chennai city has four rivers
namely Adyar, Cooum, Araniyar and Kosathalaiyar. All these rivers are fresh at the source
and while entering into the city it gets contaminated by discharge of sewage and industrial
effluents. These waterways have been with us for years and served a very useful purpose
Rapid industrialization and urbanization leads to river pollution and shrinking the water
spread area. It is the duty of individual to clean-up the waterways. It will then be realized
what a significant and positive contribution the rivers make to the well being of the city.

The inadequate land use restricting the area to implement treatment plants, hence
proper legal measures could be taken strictly by introducing regulations in Slum evacuation
and solid waste disposal and Land use.

 Create a GIS supported holistic database system, which is coordinated by an

organization committee. Link the database with the city development planning
by CMDA. Open the database to various agencies and public bodies involved
in the cleaning of waterways

 Create a pollution watch, which is empowered with a legal mandate.

 Pursue polluters responsible for toxic pollution of the waterways for cleanup
cost.

 Create a programme that will finace clean up of toxic “hotspots” in

waterways.

63
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