Study on the water quality and menace of Water hyacinth in Sonai River, Rupahi, Nagaon, Assam

The Sonai River, spanning approximately 31.67 km from Tamulitup to Nagaon, is increasingly threatened by the 
invasive aquatic plant Pontederia crassipes (formerly Eichhornia crassipes). This study investigates the physico
chemical parameters of river water to identify factors contributing to the unchecked spread of water hyacinth. Elevated 
pH, total dissolved solids, biological oxygen demand and nutrient concentrations indicate severe deterioration of water 
quality. The proliferation of water hyacinth has disrupted aquatic biodiversity, obstructed waterways and imposed 
socioeconomic challenges on local communities. The findings emphasize the urgent need for integrated management 
strategies, combining ecological restoration, community engagement, and sustainable utilization of water hyacinth 
biomass to revive the river’s ecological health.