The Role of Aquatic Plants in Heavy Metal Removal from Eutrophic Water Bodies Around Dhamangaon Railway, District Amravati

Eutrophic water bodies around Dhamangaon Railway, District Amravati, often suffer from high concentrations of heavy metals due to industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, and urban wastewater. These contaminants pose severe risks to aquatic ecosystems and human health. Phytoremediation, the use of plants to remove pollutants, offers an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and sustainable solution. This study explores the potential of aquatic plants in heavy metal removal, emphasizing mechanisms such as rhizofiltration, phytostabilization, and phytoaccumulation. A laboratory study conducted in the college laboratory evaluated the potential of Eichhornia crassipes, Pistia stratiotes, and Hydrilla verticillata in metal uptake. The results indicate significant heavy metal removal capabilities, particularly for lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and zinc (Zn). The study further validates the findings through ANOVA statistical analysis, confirming the effectiveness of phytoremediation. The paper discusses challenges and future prospects for large-scale phytoremediation implementation in eutrophic water bodies in the Dhamangaon Railway region.