Application of Multivariate Approaches to the Hydro-chemical Assessment of the Ghodaghodi Lake, Sudurpaschim Province, Nepal

Abstract

Wetlands are considered the most diverse and productive ecosystems in the world, providing life-sustaining ecological services. Hydrochemical variables of the Ghodaghodi Lake situated in Far west Nepal were studied using multivariate statistical approaches to investigate the characteristics of water quality of the lake. A total of 10water samples were collected and analyzed for water temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, total hardness, salinity, dissolved oxygen, major ions, and dissolved Si in the pre-monsoon season during 2017.The water quality assessment was carried out by applying sodium percentage, sodium adsorption ratio, permeability index, Kelly’s ratio, magnesium adsorption ratio, action ratio of soil structural stability, and water quality index. Multivariate statistical techniques were used to evaluate the geochemical and anthropogenic processes and to identify factors influencing the ionic concentrations. The results revealed that the water was slightly alkaline with low ionic strength and remarkable spatial variations. The hydrochemistry of the lake was mainly controlled by rock weathering as the dominant Ca2+-HCO3- facies. The principal component analysis provided three major components exhibiting the diverse sources of natural and anthropogenic chemicals, including agricultural fertilizers, leakage of sewages near the human settlements, etc. The measured hydrochemical parameters indicate that lake water lies within the safe drinking water and irrigational standards. However, special consideration should be taken to control the concentrations of NO3- due to increasing anthropic activities.

Hydrochemistry and Irrigation Quality of High-Altitude Lakes: A Case Study of the Ramaroshan Lake Complex, Nepal Himalayas

“…and modern methods (multivariate statistical techniques like principal component analysis, factor analysis, cluster analysis, and discriminant analysis) can be used together for the hydrochemical characterization and explanation of the process governing hydrochemistry [18]. In Nepal, studies of various lakes, such as Phewa Lake [19], Beeshazar Lake [20], Jhilmila Lake [21], Rara Lake [22], Rajarani Lake [23], Betana Lake [24], Ghodaghodi Lake [25], Betkot Lake [26], Begnas Lake [27], etc., have utilized multivariate statistical tools to explore hydrochemical processes, trace the source of pollutants, and monitor water qualities.…”

Hydrochemical characterization of the Ramsar-listed Koshi Tappu Wetland, Nepal

“…Wetlands preserve open spaces, landscapes, cultural values, provide recreation and tourism opportunities, and perform natural environmental monitoring [8,9]. Among the wetlands in Nepal, ten have been designated as the Ramsar sites namely Koshi Tappu, Jagadishpur Reservoir, Ghodaghodi Lake Area, Beeshazari and Associated Lakes, Rara Lake, Phoksundo Lake, Gosaikunda and Associated Lakes, Gokyo and Associated Lakes, Mai Pokhari and Lake Cluster of the Pokhara Valley [14,15]. Very few hydrochemical investigations have been carried out in Nepal as compared to the Ramsar-listed wetland across the world.…”

Evaluating the Major Sources of Surface Water Quality in Pokhara Metropolitan City, Gandaki Province, Nepal

“…The access of clean drinking water as a fundamental human right underscores its critical importance. grows, rivers, lakes, and oceans continue to suffer pollution (Pant et al, 2020;Siasu, 2007). Compounded by a soaring global population over the last century, this has exacerbated pressure on already strained water resources.…”