A Case Study on Characteristics of Panchaganga River from Kolhapur to Ichalkaranji

This study demonstrates that the water quality of the Pancha- ganga River has been severely degraded by domestic sewage, industrial discharge, urban runoff, and soil erosion. Most water quality parameters exceeded the permissible limits set by BIS and WHO across all five sampling locations. Extremely high turbidity, abnormal pH values, elevated BOD and COD, low dissolved oxygen, and excessive oil and grease indicate significant environmental degradation of the river ecosystem. Among all locations, Ichalkaranji was identified as the most polluted site due to strong industrial influence. Kasaba Bawada and Hupari showed extremely high turbidity caused by suspended solids and sewage input from Jayanti Nala and surface runoff. The study conclusively establishes that the river water is not suitable for direct domestic use without treatment. Effective wastewater treatment, industrial waste management, continuous monitoring, and public awareness campaigns are vital to restore and protect the Panchaganga River.

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