Water Quality Assessment of Begum Talab Lake in Vijayapura District for Drinking Purpose Using WQI (Water Quality Index)

Abstract

The present study evaluated the drinking water quality of Begum Talab Lake, located in Vijayapura district, Karnataka, India, using the Water Quality Index (WQI) approach. Surface water samples were collected monthly from July 2024 to June 2025, and major physicochemical parameters were analysed following standard APHA (1998) methods. The pH ranged from 7.70 to 8.40, remaining within the desirable limits prescribed by BIS. Dissolved oxygen varied between 4.4 and 6.2 mg/L, while biological oxygen demand and chemical oxygen demand ranged from 1.69–5.05 mg/L and 11–24 mg/L, respectively. Total alkalinity (70–120 mg/L) and hardness (75–125 mg/L) indicated moderately hard water. Total dissolved solids and total suspended solids ranged from 195–320 mg/L and 22–64 mg/L, respectively, remaining within permissible limits. Nitrate concentrations were low (0.05–0.60 mg/L), suggesting minimal nutrient pollution. The computed overall WQI value was 92.16, categorizing the lake water as “Very Good” according to CCME classification. The findings indicate that Begum Talab Lake water is largely protected and suitable for drinking purposes with minimal treatment. However, continuous monitoring and proper management practices are recommended to maintain long-term water quality sustainability.