Seasonal Dynamics of Water Quality in a Tributary of the Beas River (Western Himalayas, India)

Abstract

This study examines how physiñochemical water parameters fluctuate seasonally in a tributary of the Beas River in Himachal Pradesh (the Western Himalayas), with the goal of assessing the degree of water quality deterioration and pinpointing pollution sources. Water samples were collected across four distinct seasons and analyzed using standard protocols for air and water temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, total alkalinity, total hardness, chloride, phosphate, nitrate, and silicate. The findings reveal that only water temperature and pH consistently met agency-recommended guidelines; all other parameters exceeded acceptable limits in every season. Duncan's Multiple Range Test (DMRT) (95% confidence) confirmed statistically significant seasonal variation in these physicochemical indicators. Further, Varimax-rotated factor analysis and cluster analysis identified clear seasonal shifts, linking fluctuations primarily to rainfall, landslides, and human activities. Seasonal trends showed peak concentrations during winter followed by monsoon, summer, and post monsoon. Water Quality Index (WQI) assessments indicated the monsoon season exhibited the poorest water quality, driven largely by sewage inflow, agricultural runoff, and soil erosion, with subsequent declines in winter, post monsoon, and summer.