AN IN-DEPTH INVESTIGATION INTO WATER QUALITY ISSUES OF THE MULA RIVER IN PUNE DISTRICT

The mismanagement of urban water resources presents a serious challenge, particularly in densely populated cities with high individual water consumption and substantial waste production. Urban water sources—such as rivers, lakes, tanks, and groundwater—are frequently depleted, polluted, or damaged. Rapid urbanisation and industrial development have intensified this problem, resulting in a significant decline in the water resources of Pune city. The growing urban population, along with increased demand for domestic and industrial water use, has led to reduced water availability and deteriorating water quality.

One of the key water bodies, the Mula River, which flows through Pune, is severely polluted with untreated sewage and industrial waste. This study aims to evaluate the level of organic pollution in the Mula River. Over a six-month period, water samples were collected and analysed for various parameters, including dissolved oxygen, total hardness, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and chemical oxygen demand (COD). Additional factors such as pH, temperature, and electrical conductivity (EC) were also examined.

The results reveal high concentrations of organic pollutants in the river, with notably elevated BOD and COD levels at four of the five sampling locations. Moreover, increased values of dissolved oxygen, total hardness, and EC were also recorded at these sites.