Research article CCME WATER QUALITY INDEX IN RIVER CAUVERY BASIN AT TALAKADU, SOUTHINDIA

Cauvery a sacred river of South India which is considered as "Dakshina Ganga" for Hindu devotees is also an important source for agriculture and hydropower. The study was carried out to know the Water Quality Index (WQI) of river Cauvery, at Talakadu in Karnataka during Panchalingadarshana festival. WQI was assessed based on physico-chemical parameters using Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment. WQI was found to be 48.49 which indicated "marginal" value, i.e., frequently impaired and conditions departed from desirable level.Biological Parameters such as Total bacterial count and MPN were found to be higher than normal value. H2S test was positive indicating fecal contamination. Presence of planktons such as Synedra ulna, Fragillaria biceps and Oscillatoria species confirmed the polluted state of water. The study provided the status of river quality and this can help us to preserve precious water resources by planning and executing for protection, management and/or making lifestyle adaptations for the benefit of the environment.