Impact of Anthropogenic Activities on Water Quality Dynamics in the Warana River using Multivariate Analysis and WQI Approach

P. N. Pharane, S. A. Khabade, S. A. Vhanalkar

Abstract: This study examines the spatial and temporal variations in water quality along the Warana River, an important tributary of the Krishna River in Maharashtra, India. Water samples were collected fortnightly over two years from four locations Kahkhe (Site I), Chikurde (Site II), Ghunaki (Site III), and Shigaon (Site IV) covering a river stretch of about 32 km. Twenty-two physicochemical parameters were assessed using standard protocols (APHA, 2012; ICMR, 1975), and the Water Quality Index (WQI) was applied to determine the overall status of river health. The assessment highlighted deteriorated water quality at Sites II and III, largely due to human activities such as domestic wastewater discharge, agricultural runoff, immersion of idols, and encroachment of the riverbed. Comparatively better quality was observed at Sites I and IV. Correlation analysis revealed strong associations among variables such as conductivity, dissolved solids, and key ions, indicating parameter interlinkages. The findings emphasize the necessity of comprehensive river basin management through strengthened monitoring, mitigation of both point and non-point pollution, and enhanced community engagement in conservation. Such interventions are vital to protect the ecological integrity of the Warana River and ensure its sustainable use as a water resource.

Keywords: Anthropogenic Activities, Physicochemical Assessment, River Basin Management, Warana River, Water Quality Index (WQI)

How to Cite?: P. N. Pharane, S. A. Khabade, S. A. Vhanalkar, "Impact of Anthropogenic Activities on Water Quality Dynamics in the Warana River using Multivariate Analysis and WQI Approach", Volume 14 Issue 9, September 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 289-295, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25825193523, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25825193523