Seasonal Variation and Pollution Load Assessment of Moosi River Water Quality in Hyderabad Urban Catchment: A Comprehensive Study

Abstract

Urban river systems in rapidly developing cities face unprecedented pollution challenges, particularly in tropical regions with distinct seasonal variations. This study investigated seasonal water quality dynamics and pollution load assessment of the Moosi River in Hyderabad, India, over 18 months (January 2023 - June 2024). Water samples were collected monthly from 12 strategically located stations and analyzed for 15 physicochemical and biological parameters. Results revealed significant seasonal variations with the pre-monsoon period showing the highest pollution levels (BOD: 45-85 mg/L, COD: 120-240 mg/L) compared to the monsoon period (BOD: 15-35 mg/L, COD: 40-95 mg/L). Industrial sources contributed 52% of the total pollution load, followed by domestic wastewater (31%) and urban runoff (17%). Heavy metal concentrations exceeded WHO guidelines, with lead (0.08-0.24 mg/L) and chromium (0.15-0.42 mg/L) showing critical levels. Microbiological analysis indicated severe faecal contamination (10⁴-10⁶ CFU/100mL). The study provides crucial baseline data for evidence-based water resource management and highlights the urgent need for integrated pollution control strategies in tropical urban river systems.