Spatio-Temporal Dynamics of Water Quality in Urban and Semi-Urban Lakes of Gujarat, India: An Integrated Assessment using Water Quality Index and Statistical Analysis
1*Chintan K. Patel, 2Kiran M. Prajapati and 3Chirag A. Acharya
1*Department of Zoology, Biomedical Technology, Human Genetics and Wildlife Biology & Conservation, School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad – 380009 (India) 2Bhavan’s Sheth R. A. College of Science, Ahmedabad – 380001 (India) 3Shri U.P. Arts, Smt. M.G. Panchal Science & Shri V.L. Shah Commerce College, Pilvai, Mehsana-382850 (India) *Corresponding author mail id: patelchintan23296@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
Urbanization is a major cause of environmental degradation, with significant impacts on freshwater ecosystems. The present study assessed and compared seasonal and spatial variations in water quality of urban Kankaria Lake and semi-urban Rani Lake situated in Gujarat, India, using physicochemical parameters such as pH, temperature, total dissolved solids (TDS), dissolved oxygen (DO), and turbidity. Seasonal WQI data were analysed and statistical significance was calculated to determine the effect of site, season and their interaction using a twoway ANOVA with replication, which shows that the water quality of the urban Kankaria Lake is significantly inferior to that of semi-urban Rani Lake across all seasons and variables. Based on the findings, water of both lakes is suitable for outdoor bathing but unsuitable for drinking, according to CPCB and BIS standards, respectively. This study highlights the impact of urbanization on freshwater ecosystems and underscores the need for targeted management techniques to prevent further deterioration and conserve these vital resources.