Impact of Ganesh Idol Immersion Activities on the Water Quality of Tapi River, Surat (Gujarat) India

Abstract

In this paper the impact of Ganesh idol immersion o n water quality of Tapi River is discussed, for thi s purpose Ashwanikumar immersion point (Ovara) was selected as sampling station because large number of Ganesh i dols immersed on this Ghat of Tapi River. Water samples were coll ected at morning hours during pre immersion, during immersion and post immersion periods of Ganesh idols. The changes in physico-chemical properties of Tapi River were observed except temperature, pH and DO with minor changes while CO 2, BOD, COD, total alkalinity, total hardness, total calcium, and oil & grease were observed with major changes during immersion period. On the basis of these changes it is concluded that level of water pollution increases in Tapi River du e to these religious activities and causes adverse effect on the aquatic ecosystem. No one can stop these religious activiti es but awareness among the people and society can r educe the pollution.