Volume 11 Issue 2 ( June )

This study evaluates seasonal water quality changes at Kanota Dam and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on the interplay between environmental factors and pandemic- induced changes. To analyze and compare water quality during pre-monsoon, post-monsoon, and pandemic periods, highlighting deviations and their implications for water management. Five sample locations were used to measure indicators of water quality, such as Turbidity, Conductivity, Total dissolved solids (TDS), pH, Chloride, Hardness, and Biological markers. Additionally, the study examined how land usage changed between 2017 and 2023.Post-monsoon showed decreased Turbidity (21.2 NTU to 16.6 NTU) and increased TDS and conductivity (685 mg/L and 385 μmho/cm to 715 mg/L and 410 μmho/cm, respectively). During the pandemic, conductivity dropped to 1590 μmho/cm from 2200 μmho/cm in April 2019, Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) increased from 7.68 mg/L to 9.29 mg/L, indicating a rise in organic pollution, while total coliforms and dissolved oxygen levels slightly decreased. Seasonal variations significantly affect water quality, with notable changes during the COVID-19 pandemic, including reduced microbial contamination but increased organic pollution. The study highlights the need for adaptive water management to address the pandemic's indirect ecological effects as well as upcoming planning difficulties pertaining to water resources.

Keywords: Water Quality, Seasonal Variations, Kanota Dam, Environmental Management, Turbidity, Conductivity,TDS