Water Quality Assessment of Pit-Lakes in Raniganj Coalfields Area, West Bengal, India

Abstract

Aim:The aim of the study was to monitor the water quality of ten pitlakes which were located in Raniganj coal field area, West Bengal for three successive seasons during April 2014 to March 2015. Methodology:In this study, physicochemical parameters of water samples were analyzed following standard methods. Statistical analyses were used to indicate the role of each parameter.Result: Significant positive correlation was noted within hardness and chloride. The nature of the pitlakes is generally alkaline. A mean value of pH 7.65 were recorded which ranged between 6.70 and 9.10 during the study period. Significant variation found among other parameters of pitlakes. PCA reveals three most important and key influential parameters -Hardness, Chloride and Nitrate Nitrogen content of pitlake water. Conclusion:This observation indicates that mine waters differ in its composition with seasonal changes and having capability to change their nature with time.