Impacts of vessel-generated waste on seasonal dynamics of water quality in the Kirtonkhola River, Bangladesh

Abstract

Rivers play a vital role in sustaining ecosystems and human livelihoods, yet increasing anthropogenic activities threaten their ecological integrity. This study assessed seasonal variations and relationships among key water quality parameters, including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), and dissolved oxygen (DO) in the Kirtonkhola River, Bangladesh, to evaluate seasonal water-quality patterns in relation to passenger vessel activities and associated waste discharge. Monthly samples were collected from two sites with contrasting vessel activity between March 2018 and February 2019. Results showed clear seasonal patterns, with pH ranging from 5.92 to 7.69, EC from 165.33 to 357 μS/cm, TDS from 80 to 183.33 mg/L, and DO from 4.23 to 7.46 mg/L. Lower pH and DO during parts of the monsoon and higher EC and TDS during the dry season reflected seasonal physicochemical variability potentially influenced by hydrological conditions and anthropogenic inputs. Linear regression confirmed a strong relationship between EC and TDS ( R ²  = 0.983 and 0.975, p  < 0.001). All parameters remained within standard limits, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and improved vessel waste management.