Assessment of Physicochemical Parameters and Total Coliform in Ganga River at Selected Ghats at Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India (March – June 2025)

Abstract

Water quality degradation due to rapid urbanization, industrialization, and anthropogenic activities has emerged as a critical environmental concern, particularly in riverine ecosystems. This study assesses the physicochemical parameters and total coliform counts of the Ganga River at Prayagraj during March–June 2025, the pre-monsoon (summer) period. Water samples were collected from five strategically selected sites—Bela Kachhar, Rasulabad Ghat, Jondhwal, Shankar Ghat and Shivkuti Ghat—between March and June, and analysed using standard APHA methods. Key parameters, including pH, turbidity, total alkalinity, total hardness, dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD3), and total coliform counts, expressed as most probable number (MPN) per 100 mL, were evaluated to determine spatial and monitoring-period variations in water quality. The results indicated near-neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.50–7.89), while turbidity levels (8.00–17.20 NTU) varied across the sampling sites. Total hardness and alkalinity showed elevated values, although further investigation is required to determine their causes. DO ranged from 3.80 to 6.90 mg/L, with lower levels indicating oxygen demand related to organic matter, whereas BOD3 values (2.10–3.90 mg/L) indicated oxygen demand associated with biodegradable organic matter. Total coliform counts (ranging from 330 to 1,120 MPN/100 mL) indicated the presence of coliform bacteria in the sampled water; however, these results alone do not confirm faecal contamination. The correlation analysis suggested associations among selected physicochemical and microbiological parameters. The observed variations may reflect multiple environmental influences. Overall, the study underscores the need for continuous monitoring, improved wastewater management, and sustainable intervention strategies to protect river health and public safety.