Dr. Ajith Joseph. K Dr. K. Shadananan Nair WATER QUALITY

Transcription

WATER QUALITY MONITORING AND LOW COST
PURIFICATION STRATEGIES FOR INLAND
WATERWAYS OF LOW-LYING AREAS
Dr. Ajith Joseph. K Nansen Environmental Research Centre (India) Dr. K. Shadananan Nair Centre for Earth Research and Environment Management, India August 2010 Appendix 3: Final Evaluation Report
Final Evaluation Report Project # (Office use) Project title: Water quality monitoring and low cost purification strategies for inland waterways of low‐lying areas Country India/Kerala/Kottayam Selected year August, 2007 – December 2009 Implementing organisation: Nansen Environmental Research Centre (India) Partner organisations: Centre for Earth Research and Environment Management NetRes The Energy Resources Institute (TERI) Project duration: August/2007‐ December/2009 ‐ (28 months) TABLE OF CONTENTS PREFACE……………………………………………………………………………………………………………3 LOCATION MAP………………………………………………………………………………………………...4 ACRONYMS………………………………………………………………………………………………………..5 EVALUATION SUMMARY (Apndx. 4)…… …………………………………………………………..81 REFERENCE (Apndx.5) ……………………………………………………………………………….……. 90 PICTURES (Apndx.6)…………………………………………………………………………………….…….94 1. Outline of the evaluation study
1.1 Project background ...................................................................................5
1.2 Project Overview ........................................................................................9
1.3. Study Objectives ......................................................................................10
1.4. Scope of Work...........................................................................................10
1.5. Study Period..............................................................................................10
2. Methodology
2.1 Evaluation questions..................................................................................11
2.2 Methodology .............................................................................................11
2.3. Schedule of the Study ..............................................................................12
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Appendix 3: Final Evaluation Report
3. Results
3.1. Project Implementation..............................................................................13
3.1.1. Planned and Actual Input ......................................................................13
3.1.2. Planned and Actual Activities ............................................................... .13
3.2. Relevance .................................................................................................14
3.2.1 Priority of the targeted issues ………………………………………………..14
3.2.2 Needs of target groups ...…………………………………………………….14
3.2.3. Relevance of Project scope, expected outcome …………………………..15
3.3. Effectiveness ...............................................................................................15
Attribution of outputs on the project objective
3.4. Self-reliance of the Project .........................................................................16
3.5. Participation............................................................................................. ..16
Analysis of Factors Attributable to Project Results............................................16
3.6. Conclusions............................................................................................. ..17
Recommendations……………………………………………………………………19
Lessons learned................................................................................................20
4. Recommendations To The Implementing Organisation (By Netres) .....21
Annex 1.Baseline information of the study region.............................................24
Annex 2.Identification and selection of low cost water purification material......51
Annex 3 Biowall construction to control bank erosion.......................................60
Annex 4. Phytoremediation……………………………........................................63
Annex 5. Awareness campaign…………………………………………………… 66
Annex 6. Geospatial analysis………………………………………………………..71
Annex 7 Biodiversity Studies…………………………………………………………79
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Preface
The Asia‐Pacific Forum for Environment and Development (APFED) Showcase Facility is a joint activity of the UNEP, acting as the Showcase Facility Secretariat and the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES). The Showcase facility aims to demonstrate, through the implementation of showcase projects, innovative practices for sustainable development in the Asia and Pacific region. Following a call for proposals by APFED secretariat in 2007, Nansen Environmental Research Centre (India), a non‐profit research centre based in Cochin (Kochi) in partnership with Centre for Earth Research and Environment Management, Cochin submitted this project proposal entitled “Water quality monitoring and low cost purification strategies for inland waterways of low‐lying areas” and was approved for funding. This project is aimed at improving the water quality of canals connected to the Meenachil River in Arpookara Panchayat, Kottaym District, one of the major rivers in the low lying areas of upper Kuttanad in Kerala State, southwest coast of India, through the implementation of low cost purification strategies suitable to the region. The showcase panel of APFED selected this proposal for implementation through APFED NetRes, TERI ‐ New Delhi, India providing strategic advice and recommendations in facilitating the development and implementation of policies,
programs and activities in pursuit of environmental management and sustainable development. Through adoption and implementation of low cost purification strategies of phytoremediation and bio‐wall construction and installation of wind induced aerator system in the study region, the project was successful in improving the water quality of canals, in conserving the biodiversity in the rivers, canals and wetlands of the study region, in controlling the growth of weeds, mosses and shrubs in the water body, in bringing about better waste management and reducing bacterial pollution, in protecting the river banks by natural water weeds and herbs and in increasing the living standard of poor fishermen by increased catch and utilisable water from clean environment. 3
Location map Fig.1. 4
Acronyms: APFED: Asia Pacific Forum for Environmental Development BOD: biological oxygen demand CEREM: Centre for Earth Research and Environment Management COD: chemical oxygen demand CPCB: Central Pollution Control Board CSC: Coconut shell charcoal DO: Dissolved oxygen IGES: Institute for Global Environmental Strategies K: Potassium Na: Sodium NERCI: Nansen Environmental Research Center India NERSC: Nansen Environmental and Remote Sensing Centre NGO: Non‐Governmental Organization SHG: Self Help Groups TERI: The Energy Resources Institute VS: Vetiver system 1.
1.1.
OUTLINE OF THE EVALUATION STUDY Project Background Kuttanad is a fertile tract of land replenished by silt brought by the river systems, spread over Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Alappuzha districts. It is a low‐lying area with backwaters, canals and stream networks extending over 874 sq. km.The area was found to be highly suited for rice cultivation from early days. However, reclaiming land from floodwaters was a hazardous task. Reclamation of land for cultivation and flood control used to be undertaken by private farmers, with assistance from the State (Pillai and Panikar, 1965). Over a period Kuttanad became the rice bowl of the State with a predominantly rice‐centric economy. Almost all the modern State interventions in Kuttanad were oriented towards achieving a single objective ‐ to boost rice production. The earlier ones were aimed at intensifying cultivation by conversion from single crop to double crop rice. Studies identified two preconditions for achieving this goal in the region. (i) Speedy drainage of the flood waters during the north‐east monsoon, and (ii) Prevention of saline water incursion into the Vembanad Lake during summer. Two engineering structures were suggested for these purposes: 5
(i) A spillway at Thottappally meant to drain off flood waters, and (ii) A regulator of Thanneermukkom to check the incursion of saline water. The spillway, reported to have been designed after detailed hydrographic and hydrological studies, is draining only less than one‐third of the desired capacity (Kannan, 1979). The Thanneermukkom Regulator, 1402m‐long, located at about 22.5 km north of Alappuzha has also proved itself to be a disaster. However, these developmental activities have reduced the risks of natural hazards like flood and saline water intrusion for Punja crop and helped extension of area under cultivation. Now the entire Kuttanad area is under high‐yielding varieties (HYV) of rice. Owing to the elimination of the risks from natural hazards, the discipline observed in earlier times in respect of agricultural practices during seasons of rice cultivation has disappeared. With the use of HYV seeds having only low resistance to pests and diseases, high seed rate, non‐judicious fertiliser application and plant protection measures, the incidence of pests and diseases and consequent crop losses have become quite common (Aravindakshan, 1990) Series of submersible bunds and roads constructed by the State government as part of the developmental programmes fragmented the wetland ecosystem into tiny units and disrupted the natural hydrological balance. Effective draining of the toxicity developed by the fertiliser‐pesticide residue became impossible and the system deteriorated (Kannan, 1979). Physiographically, the major portion of the area that forms a basin remains water‐logged for most of the year. Achencoil, Pamba, Manimala and Meenachil rivers discharge their water and sediments into the basin lake. In Kuttanad, the relatively elevated formations, which are essentially depressions skirted by dry lands, are found mostly in Upper Kuttanad and amount to 11,000 ha. Monitoring of Indian water resources done by CPCB (2007) indicates that organic pollution, as indicated by BOD and Coliform counts, continue to be the major water quality issues in our country. According to Scheffer et al. (2001), the quality of water required to maintain ecosystem health is largely a function of natural background conditions. Some aquatic ecosystems are able to resist large changes in water quality without any detectable effects on ecosystem composition and function, whereas other ecosystems are sensitive to small changes in the physical and chemical make up of the water body and this can lead to degradation of ecosystem services and loss of biological diversity. They have demonstrated that in many shallow European lakes, the gradual enrichment of the surface water with plant nutrients has resulted in shifts from systems that once were dominated by rooted aquatic plants to systems that are now dominated by algae suspended in the water column. Guidelines for the protection of aquatic life are difficult to set than the drinking water quality standards, largely because aquatic ecosystems vary enormously in their composition both spatially and temporally, and because ecosystem boundaries rarely coincide with territorial ones. Therefore, there is a movement among the scientific and regulatory research community to identify natural 6
background conditions for chemicals that are not toxic to humans or animals and to use these as guidelines for the protection of aquatic life (Robertson et al., 2006; Dodds and Oakes, 2004; Wickham et al., 2005). Organic matter is important in the cycling of nutrients, carbon and energy between producers and consumers and back again in aquatic ecosystems. The decomposition of organic matter by bacteria and fungi in aquatic ecosystems, inefficient grazing by zooplankton, and waste excretion by aquatic animals, release stored energy, carbon, and nutrients, thereby making these newly available to primary producers and bacteria for metabolism. External subsidies of organic matter that enter aquatic ecosystems from a drainage basin through point sources such as effluent outfalls, or non‐
point sources such as runoff from agricultural areas, can enhance microbial respiration and invertebrate production of aquatic ecosystems (Carr and Neary,2006). Climate change, the evolution of new waterborne pathogens, and the development and use of new chemicals for industrial, agricultural, household, medical, and personal use have raised concern as they have the potential to alter both the availability and the quality of water (IPCC, 1995; WHO, 2003; Kolpin et al., 2002). All of these activities have costs in terms of water quality and the health and integrity of aquatic ecosystems (Meybeck, 2004). In the case of the Periyar River, alkalinity downstream of a rare earth metals processing plant declined significantly in the early 1980s; this decline was accompanied by an increase in the overall variability of pH. Water quality at that monitoring station also tended to have much higher hardness, conductivity, chloride, sulphate and nitrate concentrations than a baseline, upstream monitoring station (Carr and Neary, 2006). E. coli indicates the presence of only faecal contaminants, while total or faecal coliform tests may give positive results for non‐faecal, naturally occurring bacterial species (Hill, 2003). Although many cities have advanced wastewater treatment facilities that effectively reduce microbial contaminant loads to near zero values, there remains a very large proportion of the world’s population, primarily in developing countries, without access to improved sanitation facilities, where wastewaters are discharged directly to the environment without treatment. In fact, an estimated 2.6 billion people lacked access to improved sanitation facilities in 2002 (WHO/Unicef, 2005). A study of the physico‐
chemical parameters of the minor water bodies around Kottayam by Abraham and Madanakumar (2001) revealed that only 6.94% of them were fairly clear enough to be used for domestic purpose. The rest were polluted in one form or the other. Minor water bodies are characterised by relatively quiet waters and abundant vegetation. Large numbers of micro and macro organisms dwell in these water bodies. 7
The richness of the fauna is dependent mainly on the presence of respiratory gases, the amount of sunlight penetration and turbidity. The proposed project was aimed at improving the water quality of the study region, (Fig.1), canals of Meenachil river in the upper Kuttanad (connecting Karippel to Maniaparambu, which lies between 9°37'23” and 9°38'42” N latitude and 76° 28'33” and 76° 30'6” E longitude), Arpookara Panchayat, Kottayam District, connected to the river Meenachil in central Kerala, southwest coast of India through implementation of low cost purification strategies. The drainage areas of this river basin is about 1250 sq.km with a length of 78km, has a steep gradient, is fast flowing and is normally fed by the Indian monsoon rains. This river finally debouches into the Arabian Sea through one of the largest backwater systems in the west coast of India, called Vembanad lake, after traversing through quite a number of small canals and distributaries. The annual average discharge is about 1190 million m3. But the percentage of annual discharge during the lean season is only 13%. This chain of canals support inland navigation and other activities of the rural people in this region whose major occupation is agriculture and fishing. In the late 1970s, a barrage was constructed across the Vembanad lake to obstruct salt water intrusion into the paddy fields so as to augment rice cultivation. There started many associated environmental and water quality problems as well in the downstream reach of this river canals (Aravindakshan, 1990; Bijoy, 2008, Gregory, 2003, Padmakumar, 2007). The environmental condition of the region deteriorated further due to the development of new roads across the distributor channels clogging the water bodies, increased severity of floods during peak monsoon rainy seasons and water logging in the areas. But in dry seasons, the water level of the entire canal lowered, resulting in no water movements and obstructing canal navigations. This further accelerated the incidence of water borne diseases and its occurrence in the region and is many fold in recent years. Bacteriological pollution and anaerobic conditions are the major problems of its kind in the region caused by uncontrolled solid waste dumping and open space human lavatories directly into the canals at certain under developed areas within the region. Similarly, spreading of freshwater weeds like Salvinia which hinders inland navigation and affecting water transport in the region is also another problem to be tackled. Lack of civic sense, poor living standards and unawareness of ecosystem conservation practises are some of the reasons for this decrease in water quality in the region. So an improved control and maintenance of the water quality of this region which is envisaged in this project would be a model for implementing similar controlling measures in other water environments of the coastal regions of India thereby reducing pollution in water bodies. 8
1.2.
Project Overview The project is being carried out around the canals of Arpookara Panchayat, Kottayam District, connected to the river Meenachil in central Kerala, southwest coast of India. Bacteriological pollution and anaerobic conditions in the region due to uncontrolled solid waste dumping affect the availability of reliable water and the life of hundreds of people who are depending on the canal for their livelihood. The project is aimed at improving the water quality through implementation of low cost purification strategies for the best practices that are to be adopted in the study region. The project tenure was from August, 2007 to December 2009 and a Project Kick off meeting was organised at Cochin in mid August, 2007. The first workshop and awareness campaign was organised on the next day with the participation of stakeholders (Women Group, SHG, Grama Panchayat authorities, Scientists, Grama Vikas Kendra and Policy makers, etc.) in October 2007. A review on the water quality and the current activities in the project site and the surrounding areas were made for the initial phase period (August and September 2007). Simultaneously baseline studies on water quality of the study region was conducted from October 2007 – September 2008, for the physico‐chemical analysis covering three seasons viz., Post monsoon (Oct‐Jan), Pre monsoon (Feb‐May) and monsoon (June‐ Sept)) by fixing sixteen different stations in the study region to decide baseline indicators and to identify hotspots in the region. For the conduct of awareness campaign and workshop, a database of contact points was prepared covering representatives from academic/government bodies & policy makers and local communities, after identifying stake‐holders. From November 2007 – May 2008, proper identification and selection of low cost water purification materials for the study region was done. A second workshop was organized in the study region on various aspects of maintaining water quality and different measures to manage solid waste like vermicompost preparation, utilisation of Salvinia as substratum for mushroom cultivation and other usable products thereby reducing its menace in the water body. The selection of pilot plot to implement the water purification methods was done based on the initial baseline study on water quality and other environmental conditions and from lab scale basis to pilot scale for future upscaling work. Fabrication of bags for storing water purification materials was done during the period August 2008 ‐ January, 2009. Proper herbs and plants for planting along selected river banks to control bank erosion was carried out during this period. 9
Proper measures to control aquatic pollution and water weeds were also suggested. Measures were taken to clear water logging by desilting in selected identified regions in the canal to provide smooth flow of water in lean season. A wind induced aerator system at low cost was fabricated and tested in one of the project sites and steps have been taken to permanently install this system at project site. 1.3.
Study Objectives The overall objective of the project is: To improve the water quality of the selected canals of the study region through monitoring and adoption of low cost water purification strategies in general but not limited to the following sub objectives like: •
Identification and selection of low cost water purification materials like coconut shells and herbs from natural resources available in the region. •
To identify natural herbs that have the sediment holding capacity to control bank erosion during flooding which would limit the transport of suspended sediments into the canals which in turn would impair light transparency and clogging of fish gills. •
To make a feasibility study on the effectiveness of these natural materials to improve the water quality and erosion control measures. •
To make a demonstration of the identified low cost practises for water quality and navigational improvement 1.4.
Scope of Work The pollution control measures implemented through this project has helped in improving the water quality of the canals of the Meenachil river in the study region in general and the downstream reaches in particular where the rural communities depend on this water source for their daily requirements. This type of eco‐friendly approach has not been implemented anywhere to the best of our knowledge as the resources like coconut shells, natural herbs and riparian flora tested during the project period for water purification and canal bank erosion control are readily available in the tropical environments. It is not only economically viable but also suitable for adoption in similar conditions. 1.5.
Study Period August,2007‐ December,2009 10
2.
METHODOLOGY 2.1.
Evaluation Questions An agreement between the participating institutes including their obligations with respect to the project were laid down before the start of the project. Accordingly, the components of study were addressed in the form of questions. Periodical in house monitoring assessed how far each question has been answered. This in fact helped in the smooth conduct of the project and attending to all the major issues. 1) How many representative stations have to be fixed to have a proper coverage of the study area? 2) What is the present status of the water quality of the study area? 3) What are the criteria to be analysed to develop a database regarding the water quality of the area? 4) What are the low cost water purification methods that can be adopted in the present case? 5) Is there any improvement in the water quality after implementation of the water purification method? 6) Is there any improvement in the biodiversity status of the area after implementation of the purification measures? 7) What are the herbs that are locally available that can be used to control bank erosion? 8) How can the local people be educated about the need to conserve the water quality and make them aware of the need for clean, flowing water? 2.2. Methodology Baseline studies were conducted on water quality of the study region, Meenachil river canals and adjoining water bodies to prepare a review on the present water quality and current practises.‐ low cost water purification materials were identified by selecting coconut shells and herbs from natural resources available from the region to control deterioration in water quality. A pilot plot to implement the water purification methods and to control river bank erosion was identified. Awareness campaigns and workshops were organised for local people by educating them on how to maintain environment, sustainable utilization of local resources, improved water quality etc. Measures were initiated to clear water logging by desilting in selected regions of the canal thereby reducing mosquito breeding ground and improving navigation in the canals. Routine water sampling was conducted for physico‐chemical analysis. For that water samples were collected from the 16 locations from the river canal in pre monsoon, monsoon and post monsoon seasons. The parameters estimated were COD, BOD, DO, pH, salinity, hardness, suspended sediments, Na, K, nutrients – nitrite, nitrate and phosphate, chl. a, b, c; and total coliforms. All these physical, chemical and 11
biological parameters were analysed using standard techniques and the results are discussed (Annex. 1). The drainage and base map of the area was digitized and geo‐referenced using ArcGIS 9.1. The locations and the data were then input into the drainage map. Using 3D analysis tool, a grid map was prepared which gave the spatial distribution of the chemical and biochemical data. From the grid, the polygons were evolved specifying the range of international water quality standards. The suitability zone maps for life existence during all the 3 seasons were prepared (Annex.1.1) for the following parameters such as DO, BOD, COD, Total Coliform, and pH. Fish stock and other faunal composition were assessed after the project implementation to study the effectiveness of the project. 2.3. Schedule of the Study Sl.no Activity 1 Project kick‐off meeting and assignments to project staff – 2 review on the present water quality, current practises.‐ 3 baseline studies on water quality of the study region, 4 identification and selection of low cost water purification materials 5 Selection of pilot plot to implement the water purification methods 6 Fabrication of jute bags for storing coconut shells to dump in pollution spots in the canals. 7 Identification of proper herbs and plants for planting along the river banks to control bank erosion 8 Implementing Measures to control Aquatic pollution 9 Implementing Measures to control water weeds Months 1 2 4 ⇒ 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24
10 Organise awareness 12
campaigns and workshops 11 Initiation of measures to clear water logging by desilting in selected regions of the canal. 12 Conduct of routine water sampling for physico‐
chemical analysis 13 Project Evaluation and report submission 3. RESULTS 3.1 Project Implementation 3.1.1
Planned and Actual Input – APFED Financial support‐ 27000/‐USD‐ which includes Project feasibility study, Consultancy and Demonstrable activities. NERSC contribution‐ 55000/‐USD as a major contribution for three years to study the fishery potential from satellite data for the coastal waters of southwest coast of India to which the Meenachil river enters via the Vembanad lake system. The contribution is towards meeting permanent staff expenses, logistic support, utilities, permanent equipments and furnished office spaces towards planning and execution of project activities. TERI contribution‐ By consultation for identifying and implementing proper project plan and dissemination of results through routine evaluation of the projects. The project work implementation and monitoring and evaluation through field visits and periodic review meetings. 3.1.2
Planned and actual activities •
Conduct of baseline studies on water quality of the study region, Meenachil river canals and adjoining water bodies and preparation of a review on the present water quality, current practises (Annexure 1). •
Identification and selection of low cost water purification materials like coconut shells and herbs from natural resources available from the region (Annexure 2) •
Selection of pilot plot to implement the water purification methods 13
•
Fabrication of jute bags for storing coconut charcoals to dump in pollution spots in the canals. A controlled mechanism for storing coconut charcoals from shells to treat the pollutants in the water medium •
Identification of proper herbs and plants‐ “Neerkoova” for planting along the river banks to control bank erosion (Annexure 3). •
Measures to control pollution,‐ improved use of biofertilizers, riparian vegetation and phytoremediation (Annexure 4) •
Measures to control water weeds like Salvinia which are hindrance to inland navigation •
Organise awareness campaigns and workshops through implementation of display boards, policy guidelines (Annexure 5) •
Initiation of measures to clear water logging by desilting in selected regions of the canal. •
Conduct of routine water sampling for physico‐chemical analysis (Annexure 6) and •
Assessment of fish stock and other freshwater organisms after the project implementation to study the effectiveness of the project (Annexure 7) 3.2 Relevance 3.2.1
Priority of the Targeted Issues The priority of the targeted issues in connection with the water quality of the study region are water logging, decreasing water quality and bank erosion. Stagnation of water was given top priority as it led to reduced DO, increased BOD and COD, increase in bacterial pollution etc. Dumping of solid wastes plus the proliferation of Salvinia were also issues related to stagnation. 3.2.2
Needs of Target Group / Target Area The local community in the vicinity of the study area depends on the water in the canal for most of their daily activities like water transportation, irrigation, washing, bathing etc. Due to pollution problems and water stagnation, the water quality deteriorated and was unfit for use. The need of the local population was to decrease the pollution and stagnation so that the water could be made usable and the fish catch of the region be retained to the earlier level. People also wanted the canals to be made navigable. 14
3.2.3
Relevance of Project Scope, Expected Outcome and Approach The key activities implemented in this project could improve the present water quality of the canals of the Meenachil river in the study region and also in the downstream reaches which would be more sustainable to use for the rural communities in the region. The proposed project approach has not been implemented anywhere to best of our knowledge as the resources like coconut shells, natural herbs and products mentioned in the proposal for water purification are available in the Asia‐Pacific region (Srilanka, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia to name few countries) untapped which is ecofriendly and hence this techno‐feasibility study can be transferred to these regions of interest. 3.3 Effectiveness Achievement of the Project Objective A physical model (wind induced aerator system) for water purification was implemented which would be transferred to other sites which are remote and have no access to electricity supply but can utilise wind energy. The water quality improvement through adoption of phytoremediation techniques using Vetiver system from post and pre analyses of the samples have showcased the effectiveness of this project. The river bank erosion at selected sites of the canal banks could be controlled by riparian vegetation and bio‐wall construction and reduce the availability of suspended sediment load in the waterbody. Education of local people on how to maintain environment, sustainable utilization of local resources, improved water quality etc. Improvement in biodiversity of the region. Attribution of Outputs on the Project Objective Information on the gravity of the water quality problem and identification of hotspots in the study region which require more attention in terms of planning and implementation. Ecofriendly natural resources to avoid deterioration in water quality. Alternate use of waterweeds and its menace will be controlled, reducing water logging and mosquito control, improved navigation in canals. 15
3.4 Self‐reliance of the Project Through adoption and implementation of low cost purification strategies like phytoremediation, riparian vegetation planting, bio‐wall construction, self help groups and Family units which are very active in this rural area in connection with various rural development and self employment programmes can promote these techniques in the region as a whole. NGOs can also be involved in educating people living in the region on different aspects of human behaviour and the need for adopting better practises envisaged in the project. The women’s group can reach out into the rural communities to create awareness among the housewifes and maids on how to manage solidwastes without impairing the water environments. They can collect the natural products like coconut shells and other forms of herbs from the region and make available the material for the project pilot plan. The grant received from the major funding agency,NERSC,Norway could be utilised for the self reliance of the project for few more years. The work agreement executed with the partnering institute Centre for Earth Research and Environment Management for the continued water quality maintenance till August,2011 (Article 6.6 of MoU with CEREM) will also attribute to the self reliance of the project even after the tenure of the project. 3.5 Participation The major stakeholders participating in this project are Self Help Groups (SHG), NGOs, family units in the rural areas, Women’s group and fishermen and local communities, volunteers and student groups. SHGs and family units have been active in these rural areas in connection with various rural development and self employment programmes under the national development council of Govt. of India in association with State departments. So the best practices identified and developed through this project can be easily implemented in this region with their active participation. NGOs can also be involved in educating people living in the region on different aspects of human behaviour and the need for adopting better practises envisaged in the project. Fishermen and local communities are the direct beneficiaries and stakeholders of this project as they can provide the positive and negative impact of this project implementation. The student groups and volunteers can conduct awareness campaigns on water quality improvements and distribute small pamphlets on the do’s and don’ts for the public at large in this region in order to have a sustainable development of the region. Analysis of Factors Attributable to Project Results 1. Post analysis of water quality of canals after the project implementation 16
2. Check for the increased biodiversity in the rivers, canals and wetlands of the study region. 3. Identification of Controlled growth of weeds, mosses and shrubs in the water body and its area coverage. 4. Self assessment of the waste management in the study region and analysis of reduction in bacterial pollution 5. A field investigation of river banks for natural water weeds and herbs to see the reduction in suspended material increasing primary productivity through improved photosynthesis at selected plots in the study region. 3.6 CONCLUSIONS The loss of drainage facilities and water logging had led to the increased run off, soil erosion, and frequent floods and droughts in the study area. This also increased concentration of pollutants in the water, like the pesticide and nutrient residues, proliferation of aquatic weeds, siltation etc. which in turn had resulted in the loss of biodiversity and frequent occurrence of water borne diseases in the area before the project implementation. Water quality analyses of the area have been extremely informative. The water quality results have shown that 1. 7 out of 16 stations of the study area have high COD values. This high COD can be attributed to the untreated heavy organic load entering in to the waters from the nearby regions. 2. Hardness was found to be a problem only during post monsoon season. During monsoon, the entire study area became filled with soft water. 3. BOD analysis shows that the study area is moderately polluted even during monsoon season, with the peak values obtained during post‐monsoon season. 4. The pH for all stations during the post monsoon, premonsoon and monsoon seasons was found to be around 6.00, which indicates that the water was slightly acidic. The location of the stations and its vicinity to the anthropogenic activity like rubber treatment, farming etc play an important role in this. 5. DO levels reach a minimum during post monsoon season. The low DO may be the consequence of the obstruction in water flow due to closure of bund in that season. During monsoon and pre‐monsoon, the oxygen levels rise above 2 mg/l, which is the minimum 17
amount of oxygen required for sustenance of life. However, the DO levels seldom go above 4 mg/l, the recommended DO value for inland surface waters by CPCB, in non‐monsoon months. 6. Suspended solids were within the permissible limits for inland streams. 7. Total coliform was found to be within the acceptable standards during the post monsoon and premonsoon seasons. But during the monsoon season, stations 3, 12 and 16 showed an increase in the total coliform compared to the advisable safe limits. Station 3 and 12 are sites of pronounced human activities like bathing, washing, cleaning etc. Further, many houses have their drainage outlets opening into the stream at these stations. Station 16 is considered as the waste dumping area of the local residents. 8. Salinity of the study area always remained fresh water itself. 9. During all the seasons, the sodium level of water was low compared to the desirable range of 100 mg/l. During pre‐monsoon season, the Na+ level of water in stations 11 and 13 was high compared to the maximum tolerance limit of 60% for irrigation purposes. A high concentration of Na+ in irrigation water also reduces the soil permeability, thus affecting the growth and yield of crops. 10. The major nutrients, nitrate, phosphate and nitrite was high during monsoon as the showers bring nutrients from allochthonous sources elevating the nutrient concentrations in the water. Among the various nutrient components, nitrate concentration was the highest. Through adoption and implementation of low cost purification strategies and conduct of series of awareness programmes and other sub objectives of the proposed project, we were able to achieve: 1. Improved water quality of canals, surface and groundwater 2. Preservation of biodiversity in the rivers, canals and wetlands of the study region. 4. Controlled growth of weeds, mosses and shrubs in the water body 5. A better waste management and reduction in bacterial pollution 6.
Protection of selected river banks by natural water weeds and herbs as a model for implementing to other locations in the study region. 18
7.
Increase the living standard of poor fishermen by increased catch and utilisable water for clean environment. RECOMMENDATIONS Due to the almost flat nature of the river basin it is very much difficult to manage the river. The following steps has to be taken to rejuvenate the river 1. Restrict the waste disposal including plastic waste. Waste management at the localized level has to be continued with bio‐fertilizer generation. 2. Restrict the use of chemical fertilizers and raise awareness among the people on the importance of bio fertilizer to retain the healthy soil. 3. Make water harvesting pits on the side of the river especially near to unsuitable areas of life existence 4. The pumping of river water to the pits through local self government’s support is to be encouraged and this helps not only to remove the waste water but also inject pure water to underground water and river canals to augment flow conditions. 5. Steps have to be taken for the construction of a new bypass canal from the distribution point of the Meenachil river to the study region at Station no. 1 by installing “Petti‐Para” water suction and distribution system during lean season to augment water flow in the canals. This can be supported with periodic maintenance dredging or desilting of the canal mouth leading to the main river upstream of Stn.1. 6. Awareness programs has to be continued to bring people’s attention about the ill effects of polluting river. 7. Restricting the reclamation and built up area generation only on the eroded banks of the canals. 8. Planting of economically viable trees on lateritic terrain to promote lateritization and clay generation and it reduces the ill effects of pollutants mainly on the sides of unsuitable zone 19
9. Slope stabilization measures to be taken especially by contour bunding wherever there are sloping terrains on the side of the river. 10. Planting of riparian vegetation and promotion of bio‐wall construction using available local resources. LESSONS LEARNED Phytoremediation using Vetiver system‐ One of the main advantages of Phytoremediation is that of its relatively low cost compared to other remedial methods. Phytoremediation also offers a permanent in situ remediation rather than simply translocation of the problem. The best example of phytoremediation is using Vetiver system. The Vetiver System (VS) is a new phyto ‐technology based on the use of Vetiver grass for a wide range of applications. VS were, first developed by the World Bank for soil and water conservation and now being used in over 100 countries. Vetiver grass belongs to the family ‘Poaceae’ and the genus Vetiver contains more that 16 species, among that Vetiver zizanoides L. is best suited for phytoremediation. This grass grows up to 2m above the ground with erect and stiff leaves. It has very extensive root system which grows more than 2m. Root system of Vetiver is used for bio remediation or cleaning up of contaminated soils and cleaning up of water, with high capacity of removing N and P in polluted water. Vetiver also cleans up blue green algae within 4days. This grass shows unique physiological characteristics by having wide range of tolerance to drought and flood, acidity‐alkalinity and salinity, heavy metals and various ecological types and conditions. Its pH tolerance varies from 2.5 to 11. Vetiver grows incredibly fast, so it can be used to absorb pollutants in the soil & water. Vetiver ability to sequester deadly chemicals from our environment and transform them safely into plants makes it truly remarkable. Biowall construction to control bank erosion It is learned that natural plants like “Neerkoova” which belongs to the family of Aroidae (Araceae) angiosperm family , rhizone so highly poisonous having potential anti‐venom properties, tolerant to high acidic soils., have the sediment holding capacity to control bank erosion during flooding which 20
can limit the transport of suspended sediments into the canals that impair light transparency and clogging of fish gills. So planting of these natural shrubs which was a traditional methods in this region is a viable alternative and appropriate practice of protecting bank erosion which is eco friendly in nature as it promote the sustainable utilization of local resources. Aerators that work on wind power: Such aerators are environment‐friendly and efficient in enhancing oxygen content, there by maintaining a healthy environment for aquatic organisms. 4
RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE IMPLEMENTING ORGANISATION (by NetRes) Observations of NetRes Institute (TERI)
The overall objective of the project was:
To improve the water quality of the selected canals of the study region through
monitoring and adoption of low cost water purification strategies in general but not
limited to the following sub objectives like:

Identification and selection of low cost water purification materials like
coconut shells and herbs from natural resources available in the region.

To identify natural herbs that have the sediment holding capacity to control
bank erosion during flooding which would limit the transport of suspended
sediments into the canals which in turn would impair light transparency and
clogging of fish gills.

To make a feasibility study on the effectiveness of these natural materials to
improve the water quality and erosion control measures.

To make a demonstration of the identified low cost practices for water quality
and navigational improvement
Initially during the project, to set up baseline environmental conditions, seasonal
water quality monitoring of the river system in the study area was planned and
implemented. The results of this monitoring establish the extent of pollution and also
the need to control/remediate the pollution in identified stretches of the water body.
21
From the evaluation of report findings of observations obtained from the GIS spatial
analysis and field investigations it was clear that 10.01% of the total area of the
selected river portion is falling in the unsuitable zone and rest is in moderately suitable
zone.
From the field observation it was established that waste disposal is/was the main
cause of pollution. The plastic waste disposal and almost flat nature of the terrain will
decelerate the self purifying capacity of the river.
A buffer zone of 500 m is generated around the unsuitable zone and overlaid on the
landuse map. From the overlay analysis it was is shown that the buffer zone falls
mainly on the settlement with mixed crop, rubber and mixed crop. This shows that
the source of pollutants is mainly concentrated in this region. The absence of
unsuitable zone near to paddy region indicates the power of clay in paddy fields to
reduce the adverse effect of pollutants. So it is very much understood that the
clayey and clayey lateritic terrains are important to purify the river and point towards
the importance of rejuvenation of clayey and lateritic terrains. This can only be
achieved by planting trees especially on the tropical lateritic terrains.
Use of low cost, submerged coconut charcoal system for removing pollutants have
been demonstrated effectively in selected location of river water system. This
provides clean solution for long-term maintenance of the water quality.
Another notable feature of the project was development of wind induced aerator
system for use in the water body in the areas where power supply either is not there
or is erratic. These aerators would soon be implemented at other sites which are
remote and have no access to electricity supply but can utilise wind energy. The
water quality improvement through adoption of phytoremediation techniques using
Vetiver system from post and pre analyses of the samples has also showcased the
effectiveness of this project.
For controlling the erosion of river bank, use of riparian vegetation and bio-wall
construction has been successfully demonstrated in the project. This also reduced
silting of the water body.
22
Education of local people on how to maintain environment, sustainable utilization of
local resources, improved water quality etc. Improvement in biodiversity of the
region was also observed.
NetRes Institute’s (TERI’s) Recommendations
The project “Water Quality Monitoring and Low Cost Purification Strategies for Inland
Waterways of Low Lying Areas” during its implementation has been able to meet
and achieve all its objectives set out at the proposal stage. The project also led to
development of wind based aerator system which certainly would be useful for use
in areas where power supply is either not there or is erratic.
TERI recommends successful closure of the project.
ANNEX Annex 1: Baseline information on water quality of the study region Annex 2: Identification and selection of low cost water purification materials Annex3: Bio‐wall construction to control bank erosion Annex 4: Phytoremediation techniques Annex 5: Awareness campaigns Annex 6: Geospatial analysis of water quality of the study region Annex 7: Biodiversity improvement Appendix 4:Summary Appendix 5:Bibliography Appendix6: Financial Record
23
Annexure 1‐ Baseline information on water quality of the study region 3.1.2.1 Physico – chemical characteristics of the water body Water quality analyses helped to identify the hot spots within the study region that requires attention in the context of water quality improvement. The region closer to downstream stretches of the canal is environmentally critical in terms of BOD, COD and hardness. The presence of salt water during January in almost all the stations have been noticed but it is within the prescribed limits of WHO standards for irrigation and life support for freshwater organisms (WHO, 2004). But all the stations are deprived of sufficient amount of dissolved oxygen. CHEMICAL OXYGEN DEMAND (COD) COD is a measure of the oxygen equivalent of the organic matter in a water sample that is susceptible to oxidation by a strong chemical oxidant, such as dichromate (Chapman, 1996). It was found that during post monsoon season the COD was high in stations 1,2,5,6,7,13,15 with the peak found in stations 2 and 7with COD of 213mg O2 / l and 190 mg O2 / l respectively. This high COD can be attributed to the untreated heavy organic load entering in to the waters from the nearby areas. PARAMETER : COD (mgO2/l) Station Post Monsoon Pre Monsoon Monsoon
Station 1 116.67 30.00 38.40 Station 2 213.33 40.00 48.00 Station 3 53.33 20.00 28.80 Station 4 90.00 10.00 57.60 Station 5 160.00 30.00 38.40 Station 6 123.33 20.00 28.80 Station 7 190.00 50.00 57.60 24
Station 8 63.33 20.00 28.80 Station 9 56.67 30.00 28.80 Station 10 35.00 30.00 86.40 Station 11 40.00 10.00 19.20 Station 12 66.67 20.00 28.80 Station 13 123.33 30.00 38.40 Station 14 45.00 20.00 28.80 Station 15 116.67 70.00 76.80 Station 16 46.67 50.00 86.40 In minor water bodies, household and industrial wastes may cause high concentrations of BOD, COD, nitrates, organic chemicals and bacteria (Todd et al., 1976). The tolerance limit of COD set for inland surface waters subject to pollution is 250 mg /l (US EPA, 1997). As per this value, the COD values of all the stations during all seasons were within the acceptable range. The highest COD was noted during the post monsoon season. The closure of the bund with subsequent accumulation of organic wastes in the water body along with lack of circulation of the water could be the reasons for high COD. During monsoon and pre‐
25
monsoon seasons, the bund remains open and there is exchange of water and wastes between the backwater and the inland water bodies, leading to a reduction in COD. Monsoon season is the time of maximum flushing and cleansing in the water body. But the anomaly in the COD value could be explained in terms of the time of sampling. During peak monsoon, the entire study area was flooded with water and the flow rate was high making it difficult for sampling. So sampling was done after the rains subsided and the flow rate normalized. Station 10 and 16 which recorded high COD during monsoon season are located in such a position that the wastes washed out along the river gets accumulated in these pockets. 4.2 HARDNESS Hardness is a water quality parameter that is most influenced by the geology of the surrounding drainage basin, in lake and river monitoring stations worldwide. It is a water‐quality indication of the concentration of alkaline salts in water, mainly calcium and magnesium. According to International standards, the scale of water hardness, measured by weight of dissolved salts (in milligrams) per unit (in litres) of water is as follows: Soft — 0–60 mg/l Moderately Hard — 61–120 mg/l Hard — 121–180 mg/l Very Hard — over 180 mg/l PARAMETER : HARDNESS (Ca2+, Mg2+) (mg CaCo3/l) Station Post Monsoon Pre Monsoon Monsoon Station 1 63.31 59.42 6.40 Station 2 63.31 52.68 15.00 Station 3 64.90 55.28 26.00 Station 4 109.33 52.79 33.20 Station 5 119.88 48.11 44.00 26
Station 6 115.41 53.63 52.20 Station 7 127.86 60.17 64.00 Station 8 149.64 54.59 71.20 Station 9 165.49 108.25 80.00 Station 10 162.25 102.73 87.20 Station 11 211.43 146.05 8.20 Station 12 189.29 122.90 16.60 Station 13 194.84 124.08 26.40 Station 14 210.95 144.67 33.80 Station 15 185.55 60.82 41.80 Station 16 240.55 49.68 53.80 During post monsoon season, hard water is found in all stations. Todd et al. (1976) are of the opinion that solid waste influx during non‐monsoon months increases the hardness, alkalinity and total dissolved salts of underground water. Here also, the closure of bund during post monsoon season results in accumulation of wastes in the study area increasing hardness of the surface water. Stations 1, 2 and 3 which are the riverine stations recorded only moderate hardness. 27
Contrary to this, during pre monsoon season, typical hard water was seen only in stations 11‐14 and during monsoon, due to efficient flushing, water was not hard in any part of the study area. The hardness of water has a direct effect on aquatic life affecting their osmoregulation .With increased hardness, the water become more concentrated thus stressing the aquatic life as they have to spend more energy to regulate their body fluid concentration, i.e., to prevent the efflux of their body fluids. BIOCHEMICAL OXYGEN DEMAND (BOD) BOD is a measure of the amount of oxygen removed from aquatic environments by aerobic micro‐organisms for their metabolic requirements during the breakdown of organic matter, and systems with high BOD tend to have low dissolved oxygen concentrations. Microbial consumption of oxygen, measured as BOD, tends to increase with water temperature. Higher water temperatures affect plant life by increasing growth rates, resulting in a shorter lifespan and species overabundance (i.e., algal blooms). Increases in algae and macrophyte abundance further reduce oxygen saturation in the water column. The loss of oxygen‐sensitive but highly valued trophy species like trout and the aesthetic degradation caused by ‘weedy’ receiving waters can impact the use of the system as a recreational resource (Taylor and Helwig, 1995). PARAMETER : BOD (mg O2 / l) Station Post Monsoon Pre Monsoon Monsoon Station 1 49.53 2.53 3.80 Station 2 57.50 2.74 7.49 Station 3 29.09 2.53 9.30 Station 4 14.64 5.61 8.70 Station 5 38.97 6.17 12.91 Station 6 44.58 1.93 11.65 Station 7 26.97 3.51 7.68 28
Station 8 24.24 2.29 14.71 Station 9 30.64 14.31 14.85 Station 10 5.61 17.04 Station 11 19.97 3.83 10.47 Station 12 32.30 2.46 10.89 Station 13 74.40 38.68 8.79 Station 14 31.21 2.20 13.07 Station 15 27.73 6.12 8.35 Station 16 26.01 6.02 14.01 During the post monsoon season, BOD was found to be high in all the stations , with the highest value of 74.4 mg O2 / l in station13.The high BOD represents increased biological activity, wherein all the dissolved oxygen are used to degrade the organic matter. This may be attributed to fertilizer runoff from the fields to the waters thus promoting the growth of algae. When algae die, plenty of dissolved oxygen is used up to decompose the organic matter leading to anoxic conditions and consequent fish kills. During the premonsoon season, BOD at all stations, except 9 and 13, was found to be between 2‐8 mg/l, which is considered as the indication of moderate water pollution. 29
During monsoon season also, according to the BOD values, water appears to be polluted. Study by Abraham and Madanakumar (2001) on the minor water bodies around Kottayam has also recorded high BOD values ranging between 40.13 and 68.24. They have attributed it to the discharge of sewage, waste and the subsequent increase in the microbial population. As part of the National Programme of Monitoring of Indian National Aquatic Resources (MINARS), CPCB found that the numbers of water bodies (river stretches and lentic water bodies) exceeding the level of 6 mg/l BOD are 86 and among them 71 are river stretches and 15 are lentic water bodies (lakes/tanks and ponds) (Bharadwaj, 2005). pH The pH of an aquatic ecosystem is important because it is closely linked to biological productivity. Although the tolerance of individual species varies, pH values between 6.5 and 8.5 usually indicate good water quality and this range is typical of most major drainage basins of the world. Variation in pH is related to the fluctuations in temperature. A decrease in pH would occur if temperature increases, since there would be a greater decrease of CO2 level due to the high rate of decomposition of organic matter (Dineshkumar, 1997). PARAMETER : pH Station Post Monsoon Pre Monsoon Monsoon Station 1 6.46 6.23 6.07 Station 2 6.41 6.27 6.23 Station 3 6.38 6.23 5.99 Station 4 6.38 6.29 5.97 Station 5 6.77 6.07 6.33 Station 6 6.36 6.13 6.05 Station 7 6.43 6.20 5.98 Station 8 6.71 6.15 5.90 Station 9 6.16 6.02 5.72 30
Station 10 6.15 6.17 6.05 Station 11 5.82 6.20 5.88 Station 12 6.09 6.06 5.88 Station 13 5.77 6.15 5.92 Station 14 5.88 6.00 5.93 Station 15 6.19 6.19 5.92 Station 16 5.99 6.23 5.70 The pH for all stations during the post monsoon, premonsoon and monsoon seasons was found to be around 6.00.This is found to be in acceptable pH range of 6‐8 for lakes, ponds and streams. In the upper basins of the Meenachil river, land use varies from evergreen forests and plantation crops like rubber and tea in the highland regions to crops like rice and coconut in the midland (Gopakumar and Takara, 2008, ICMAM, 2002). DISSOLVED OXYGEN PARAMETER: DISSOLVED OXYGEN, DO (mg O2 / l) Station Post Pre Monsoon 31
Monsoon Monsoon Station 1 2.67 5.93 6.12 Station 2 2.51 4.63 4.85 Station 3 2.40 3.41 4.39 Station 4 1.85 2.35 4.52 Station 5 1.91 3.14 5.01 Station 6 2.18 3.17 5.17 Station 7 1.58 3.04 5.03 Station 8 1.85 3.46 5.01 Station 9 2.34 2.68 4.69 Station 10 2.07 2.92 4.37 Station 11 1.69 3.11 4.70 Station 12 2.12 4.12 4.71 Station 13 1.90 3.53 4.37 Station 14 2.18 3.04 4.10 Station 15 2.02 2.55 4.52 Station 16 2.07 4.05 1.88 32
During the post monsoon season, the DO is found to be almost constant in all the stations (around 2.00). This DO level is much below the recommended level of DO of 4.0 – 5.0 mg/L to support aquatic life. The decrease in DO may be indicative of bacteria coming from untreated sewage or organic discharges; thereby resulting in increased BOD. During the premonsoon season, the DO level is highly variable among the stations studied. Except for stations 4, 9, 10, 15 all other stations have a minimal DO level to support aquatic life. During the monsoon season, the DO level is found to be within acceptable standards to support life for all stations except for station16. PARAMETER : SUSPENDED SEDIMENTS (TSS) (mg/l) Station Post Monsoon Pre Monsoon Monsoon Station 1 2.18 Station 2 5.41 Station 3 1.60 Station 4 1.66 Station 5 6.51 Station 6 1.51 Station 7 3.52 Station 8 3.19 Station 9 8.35 Station 10 6.18 Station 11 6.70 Station 12 3.70 Station 13 5.84 Station 14 3.58 33
Station 15 7.06 Station 16 3.97 During the pre monsoon season, suspended sediments were measured for all stations in terms of total suspended solid concentration (mg per litre of water).It was found that suspended sediments was very low for all stations , compared to 25‐80 mg/L which is the average TSS concentration for moderate water quality. PARAMETER : TOTAL Coliforms (MPN index / 100 ml) Station Post Monsoon Pre Monsoon Monsoon Station 1 747.67 780.00 28.00 Station 2 181.00 413.25 240.00 Station 3 337.67 803.33 1100.00 Station 4 191.00 177.75 240.00 Station 5 106.00 155.10 240.00 Station 6 254.33 379.00 93.00 Station 7 69.67 174.50 210.00 Station 8 350.00 521.33 43.00 Station 9 571.50 564.00 Station 10 141.50 93.00 93.00 Station 11 237.00 587.50 210.00 Station 12 211.00 240.00 1100.00 Station 13 188.00 600.00 150.00 Station 14 253.33 116.50 460.00 Station 15 84.00 225.00 240.00 34
Station 16 39.50 82.50 1100.00 During the post monsoon and premonsoon seasons, total coliform was found to be within the acceptable standards. But during the monsoon season, stations 3, 12 and 16 showed an increase in the total coliform compared to the advisable safe limits. The increase in total coliform is indicative of the pathogenic organisms present in water. This may be attributed to indiscriminate discharge of untreated sewage and human, animal faecal matter in to the water (Tang, 2009). PARAMETER : SALINITY (Chlorosity mg / l x0.0018) Station Post Monsoon Pre Monsoon Monsoon Station 1 0.008 0.002 0.11 Station 2 0.007 0.004 0.019 Station 3 0.009 0.01 0.031 Station 4 0.011 0.011 0.025 Station 5 0.011 0.006 0.032 35
Station 6 0.011 0.006 0.024 Station 7 0.017 0.012 0.031 Station 8 0.008 0.006 0.021 Station 9 0.010 0.008 0.024 Station 10 0.010 0.009 0.025 Station 11 0.038 0.052 0.042 Station 12 0.007 0.008 0.023 Station 13 0.009 0.013 0.025 Station 14 0.01 0.008 0.018 Station 15 0.01 0.013 0.025 Station 16 0.03 0.019 0.039 PARAMETER : Na (mg / l) Station Post Monsoon Pre Monsoon Monsoon 36
Station 1 16.27 64.50 3.85 Station 2 59.57 42.81 5.90 Station 3 18.37 43.75 7.20 Station 4 22.37 39.68 8.40 Station 5 22.27 34.58 5.10 Station 6 16.77 34.75 5.80 Station 7 21.07 37.96 8.20 Station 8 23.50 42.75 4.90 Station 9 34.53 98.21 5.65 Station 10 47.97 89.60 5.50 Station 11 47.80 155.89 10.05 Station 12 40.87 98.54 5.45 Station 13 42.33 113.73 4.65 Station 14 52.53 88.49 4.35 Station 15 27.87 45.60 6.90 Station 16 38.87 43.53 9.85 37
During all the seasons, the sodium level of water was low compared to the desirable range of 200 mg/l for drinking purposes. Since the percentage of sodium in water also determines the suitability of water for irrigation, it was found that the Na+ level of water in stations 11 and 13 was high compared to the maximum tolerance limit of 60% for irrigation purposes. The high Na % may be due to the sewage contribution from the neighbouring industries. PARAMETER : K (mg / l) Station Post Monsoon Pre Monsoon Monsoon Station 1 2.20 5.00 1.05 Station 2 2.13 3.60 1.25 Station 3 2.23 3.70 1.70 Station 4 2.40 3.45 1.55 Station 5 2.97 3.23 1.15 Station 6 2.20 3.28 0.75 Station 7 2.37 3.60 1.70 Station 8 2.53 3.70 1.20 Station 9 3.23 6.03 1.45 Station 10 3.63 5.90 1.20 Station 11 4.70 8.70 2.00 Station 12 3.73 6.15 1.35 Station 13 3.27 5.28 1.15 Station 14 3.60 8.05 1.10 Station 15 2.70 4.08 1.90 Station 16 4.10 4.15 1.65 38
During all the seasons, potassium level of water was found to be low in all stations making it unsuitable for irrigation, K+ being the essential nutrient element for plants (Dodds and Oakes, 2004). POST MONSOON PLOT FOR THE PHYSICAL PARAMETERS [SALINITY, HARDNESS , Na (mg/l), K (mg/l)] OF ALL THE STATIONS Stations Salinity Hardness Na K Station1 0.008 63.307 16.267 2.200 Station2 0.007 63.307 59.567 2.133 Station3 0.009 64.900 18.367 2.233 Station4 0.011 109.333 22.367 2.400 Station5 0.011 119.880 22.267 2.967 Station6 0.011 115.407 16.767 2.200 Station7 0.017 127.860 21.067 2.367 Station8 0.008 149.640 23.500 2.533 Station9 0.010 165.487 34.533 3.233 Station10 0.010 162.253 47.967 3.633 Station11 0.038 211.427 47.800 4.700 39
Station12 0.007 189.293 40.867 3.733 Station13 0.009 194.840 42.333 3.267 Station14 0.010 210.953 52.533 3.600 Station15 0.010 185.547 27.867 2.700 Station16 0.030 240.553 38.867 4.100 PREMONSOON PLOT FOR THE PHYSICAL PARAMETERS [SALINITY, HARDNESS, Na (mg/l), K (mg/l), Suspended sediments (mg/l)] OF ALL THE STATIONS Station Salinity Hardness Na K Station1 0.002 59.42 64.50 5.00 Station2 0.004 52.68 42.81 3.60 Station3 0.010 55.28 43.75 3.70 Station4 0.011 52.79 39.68 3.45 Station5 0.006 48.11 34.58 3.23 40
Station6 0.006 53.63 34.75 3.28 Station7 0.012 60.17 37.96 3.60 Station8 0.006 54.59 42.75 3.70 Station9 0.008 108.25 98.21 6.03 Station10 0.009 102.73 89.60 5.90 Station11 0.052 146.05 155.89 8.70 Station12 0.008 122.90 98.54 6.15 Station13 0.013 124.08 113.73 5.28 Station14 0.008 144.67 88.49 8.05 Station15 0.013 60.82 45.60 4.08 Station16 0.019 49.68 43.53 4.15 MONSOON PLOT FOR THE PHYSICAL PARAMETERS [SALINITY, HARDNESS, Na
(mg/l), K (mg/l),] OF ALL THE STATIONS
Stations Salinity Hardness Na K 41
Station1 0.110 6.40 3.85 1.05 Station2 0.019 15.00 5.90 1.25 Station3 0.031 26.00 7.20 1.70 Station4 0.025 33.20 8.40 1.55 Station5 0.032 44.00 5.10 1.15 Station6 0.024 52.20 5.80 0.75 Station7 0.031 64.00 8.20 1.70 Station8 0.021 71.20 4.90 1.20 Station9 0.024 80.00 5.65 1.45 Station10 0.025 87.20 5.50 1.20 Station11 0.042 8.20 10.05 2.00 Station12 0.023 16.60 5.45 1.35 Station13 0.025 26.40 4.65 1.15 Station14 0.018 33.80 4.35 1.10 Station15 0.025 41.80 6.90 1.90 Station16 0.039 53.80 9.85 1.65 42
POSTMONSOON PLOT FOR THE CHEMICAL PARAMETERS (pH, COD) FOR ALL THE STATIONS STATIONS pH COD Station1 6.46 116.67 Station2 6.41 213.33 Station3 6.38 53.33 Station4 6.38 90.00 Station5 6.77 160.00 Station6 6.36 123.33 Station7 6.43 190.00 Station8 6.71 63.33 Station9 6.16 56.67 Station10 6.15 35.00 Station11 5.82 40.00 Station12 6.09 66.67 Station13 5.77 123.33 43
Station14 5.88 45.00 Station15 6.19 116.67 Station16 5.99 46.67 During the post monsoon season, •
•
pH is found to be in the acceptable range for all stations for a desirable water quality.
COD is found to be very high in stations 2, 5, 7 and 13 that can be accounted to the
untreated organic load entering the water from nearby places.
PREMONSOON PLOT FOR THE CHEMICAL PARAMETERS (pH, COD) FOR ALL THE STATIONS STATIONS pH COD Station1 6.23 30.00 Station2 6.27 40.00 Station3 6.23 20.00 Station4 6.29 10.00 Station5 6.07 30.00 Station6 6.13 20.00 Station7 6.20 50.00 44
Station8 6.15 20.00 Station9 6.02 30.00 Station10 6.17 30.00 Station11 6.20 10.00 Station12 6.06 20.00 Station13 6.15 30.00 Station14 6.00 20.00 Station15 6.19 70.00 Station16 6.23 50.00 During premonsoon season, •
pH is found to be in the neutral range for all stations indicating neither acidic or
alkaline water.
•
COD is in a desirable range in all stations indicating the availability of water dissolved
oxygen in these stations.
MONSOON PLOT FOR THE CHEMICAL PARAMETERS (pH, COD) FOR ALL THE STATIONS STATIONS pH COD Station1 6.07 38.40 Station2 6.23 48.00 45
Station3 5.99 28.80 Station4 5.97 57.60 Station5 6.33 38.40 Station6 6.05 28.80 Station7 5.98 57.60 Station8 5.90 28.80 Station9 5.72 28.80 Station10 6.05 86.40 Station11 5.88 19.20 Station12 5.88 28.80 Station13 5.92 38.40 Station14 5.93 28.80 Station15 5.92 76.80 Station16 5.70 86.40 46
During the monsoon season, •
•
pH is found to be in the neutral range maintaining the water quality standards.
COD is more or less the same in all stations compared to the premonsoon season
except for station 10 where there is a sudden rise in the COD level from 30 mg O2 / l
to 86.40 mg O2 /l. This may be either due to discharge of untreated sewage or fertilizer
runoff from the fields adding to the organic load of the water.
POSTMONSOON PLOT FOR THE BIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS [DO (mg O2/l), BOD (mgO2/l),T. Coliform(MPN index/100ml)] FOR ALL THE STATIONS STATION DO BOD T. Coliform Station1 2.67 49.53 747.67 Station2 2.51 57.50 181.00 Station3 2.40 29.09 337.67 Station4 1.85 14.64 191.00 Station5 1.91 38.97 106.00 Station6 2.18 44.58 254.33 Station7 1.58 26.97 69.67 Station8 1.85 24.24 350.00 Station9 2.34 30.64 571.50 Station10 2.07 1375.88 141.50 Station11 1.69 19.97 237.00 Station12 2.12 32.30 211.00 Station13 1.90 74.40 188.00 Station14 2.18 31.21 253.33 Station15 2.02 27.73 84.00 Station16 2.07 26.01 39.50 47
During the post monsoon season, •
DO is found to be very low than the acceptable DO in all stations indicating
highly polluted water.
•
In relation to the low DO, BOD is high with the peak BOD found in station10
indicating severely polluted water.
•
Total Coli form for all stations was well within the acceptable standards.
PREMONSOON PLOT FOR THE BIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS [DO (mg O2/l), BOD (mgO2/l),T. Coliform (MPN index/100ml)] FOR ALL THE STATIONS STATION DO BOD T. Coliform Station1 5.93 2.53 780.00 Station2 4.63 2.74 413.25 Station3 3.41 2.53 803.33 Station4 2.35 5.61 177.75 Station5 3.14 6.17 155.10 Station6 3.17 1.93 379.00 Station7 3.04 3.51 174.50 Station8 3.46 2.29 521.33 Station9 2.68 14.31 564.00 48
Station10 2.92 5.61 93.00 Station11 3.11 3.83 587.50 Station12 4.12 2.46 240.00 Station13 3.53 38.68 600.00 Station14 3.04 2.20 116.50 Station15 2.55 6.12 225.00 Station16 4.05 6.02 82.50 During the premonsoon season, •
•
DO level have increased in all stations compared to the post monsoon season.
BOD is accordingly low during this season indicating the availability of dissolved
oxygen to oxidize the organic matter present.
•
Total coliform fall within the safe limits for all stations.
MONSOON PLOT FOR THE BIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS [DO (mg O2/l), BOD
(mgO2/l), T. Coliform (MPN index/100ml)] FOR ALL THE STATIONS
STATION DO BOD T. Coliform Station1 6.12 3.80 28.00 Station2 4.85 7.49 240.00 Station3 4.39 9.30 1100.00 49
Station4 4.52 8.70 240.00 Station5 5.01 12.91 240.00 Station6 5.17 11.65 93.00 Station7 5.03 7.68 210.00 Station8 5.01 14.71 43.00 Station9 4.69 14.85 Station10 4.37 17.04 93.00 Station11 4.70 10.47 210.00 Station12 4.71 10.89 1100.00 Station13 4.37 8.79 150.00 Station14 4.10 13.07 460.00 Station15 4.52 8.35 240.00 Station16 1.88 14.01 1100.00 During the monsoon season
• DO was found to be low in all stations.
• Owing to the low DO level of the water, there was a corresponding rise in the BOD.
• Total coliform was found to be high in stations 3, 12 and 16 making the water unfit for
drinking or any other domestic purposes.
50
NUTRIENTS Nitrite (umol/l) Station Post Monsoon Pre Monsoon Monsoon Station 1 0.41 0.15 0.10 Station 2 0.52 0.16 0.15 Station 3 0.25 0.21 0.30 Station 4 0.15 0.29 0.19 Station 5 0.24 0.22 0.20 Station 6 0.08 0.28 0.14 Station 7 0.15 0.35 0.18 Station 8 0.14 0.26 0.21 Station 9 0.23 0.25 0.40 Station 10 0.16 0.32 0.22 Station 11 0.27 0.36 0.23 Station 12 0.11 0.22 0.14 Station 13 0.19 0.21 0.15 Station 14 0.23 0.16 0.16 Station 15 0.61 0.29 0.18 Station 16 0.26 0.27 0.31 51
Phosphate(umol/l) Station Post Monsoon Pre Monsoon Monsoon Station 1 0.54 0.28 Station 2 0.44 0.45 0.23 Station 3 0.18 0.32 0.10 Station 4 0.09 0.33 0.16 Station 5 0.22 0.67 0.43 Station 6 0.07 0.43 0.10 Station 7 0.26 0.39 0.16 Station 8 0.13 0.53 0.15 Station 9 0.15 0.74 0.31 Station 10 0.09 1.40 0.29 Station 11 0.22 0.73 0.17 52
Station 12 1.00 0.29 0.20 Station 13 0.09 0.40 0.10 Station 14 0.20 0.36 1.37 Station 15 0.77 0.72 0.24 Station 16 0.41 0.59 0.23 Nitrate(umol/l) Station Post Monsoon Pre Monsoon Monsoon Station 1 30.17 6.67 23.86 Station 2 20.55 16.93 17.82 Station 3 7.50 7.37 47.55 Station 4 9.36 9.25 28.21 Station 5 18.76 7.00 18.43 Station 6 12.93 7.67 24.58 53
Station 7 11.88 2.59 17.20 Station 8 7.94 5.26 28.70 Station 9 22.67 6.78 19.51 Station 10 10.80 5.68 25.22 Station 11 1.36 1.27 20.79 Station 12 15.86 8.40 24.86 Station 13 12.04 4.44 34.26 Station 14 10.40 6.24 6.50 Station 15 13.62 4.20 33.72 Station 16 2.12 4.06 16.08 Chlorophyll pigments Chl a ‐ ug/l Station Post Monsoon Pre Monsoon Monsoon Station 1 2.74 2.60 2.07 54
Station 2 3.14 1.96 1.84 Station 3 3.42 2.53 1.12 Station 4 1.12 3.53 1.58 Station 5 2.81 2.95 1.36 Station 6 0.80 1.80 1.34 Station 7 2.07 2.68 1.21 Station 8 4.80 1.69 1.34 Station 9 1.87 8.47 1.12 Station 10 3.47 1.38 1.02 Station 11 1.89 7.61 3.31 Station 12 1.71 2.86 2.48 Station 13 1.08 5.13 1.25 Station 14 3.61 3.03 1.14 Station 15 1.95 3.54 1.15 Station 16 1.32 4.42 0.66 55
Chl b ug/l Station Post Monsoon Pre Monsoon Monsoon
Station 1 0.49 1.19 0.91 Station 2 1.18 1.60 1.12 Station 3 0.15 1.06 0.41 Station 4 1.69 0.16 Station 5 0.66 1.86 0.14 Station 6 0.01 1.20 0.60 Station 7 0.22 1.12 0.53 Station 8 0.88 0.24 Station 9 2.52 0.66 0.17 Station 10 0.48 0.46 0.06 Station 11 0.41 2.39 0.33 Station 12 0.55 0.78 0.89 Station 13 0.64 1.83 0.07 Station 14 0.30 1.55 0.34 Station 15 0.63 0.80 Station 16 0.02 2.02 0.25 56
Chl C ug/l Station Post Monsoon Pre Monsoon Monsoon Station 1 1.03 1.49 2.28 Station 2 0.89 1.19 1.33 Station 3 0.12 1.58 0.51 Station 4 0.18 2.44 0.61 Station 5 0.78 2.21 0.72 Station 6 3.64 1.61 0.65 Station 7 1.31 0.59 Station 8 0.32 0.40 0.89 Station 9 5.67 1.86 0.76 Station 10 0.21 0.12 0.97 Station 11 0.35 3.14 0.87 Station 12 1.21 1.46 1.23 Station 13 1.06 1.62 1.21 57
Station 14 1.29 0.56 0.78 Station 15 0.46 1.47 0.87 Station 16 0.47 1.47 0.54 58
Annexure 2
Identification and selection of low cost water purification materials Other water purification methods Coconut shell charcoal packed in gunny bags were immersed in polluted waters of the study area. Coconut shell charcoal is the product obtained after carbonizing coconut shell with a limited supply of air. (This is the raw material for the manufacture of activated carbon).The yield varies from 25‐33% of the mass of raw shell. The activated carbon is the key raw material used for the purification of water sources and removal of organic substances. Recently coconut shell charcoal (CSC) has been developed into one of the promising options for heavy metal removal from contaminated wastewater (kurniawan and Sillanpaa, 2009). They have shown that the exchange/sorption properties of coconut shell are due to the presence of some functional groups, such as carboxylic, hydroxyl, and lactone, which have a high affinity for metal ions (Babel et al., 2004). Coconut shell, a hard and thick bony endocarp material, which presents serious disposal problems for local environment, is an abundantly available agricultural waste from households and local coconut industry. In their studies, Babel et al. (2004) reported the technical applicability of coconut shell charcoal to remove toxic chromium from contaminated wastewater. After pretreatment with oxidizing agents, their performances are comparable to that of commercial activated carbon. Coconut shell charcoal. Coconut shell charcoal packed in gunny bags 59
Annexure-3
Erosion control measures‐ Biowall construction The natural plant species “Neerkoova” in local dialect with botanical name Lagenandra toxicaria was identified for the canal embankment protection work. Lagenandra thrives well in stagnant, shallow water bodies like ponds, tanks, channels and temporary water sources like marshes, where they dominate the submerged vegetation. Among many plants which forms the natural vegetation along the banks of the stream, L. toxicaria was found to hold the soil tightly and prevent erosion. Thus it was used for bank protection studies and we had obtained fruitful results. Embank erosion Embank protection work with “Neerkoova” 60
Erosional features of the water way and bank protection works Desilting of canals Desilting work in progress in the inland waterways Siltation of water bodies poses dangers of flash flood to the community, especially during the monsoon seasons (Kumar, 2007). In addition, the obstructed waterways and the continuous fallow of rice fields have created breeding grounds for disease vectors such as mosquitoes and rodents respectively (MSSRF 2007). Therefore desilting was a necessity as part of the cleaning up of the canals. Desilting was done by manually removing the silt from the canals. This was done along the entire stretch of the study area. Desilting improved the water movement through the canals, prevented floods and made them fit for inland transportation. The idea has been implemented in the present study based on the reports that Rs. 36 crores have been earmarked for desilting the canals, rivers, tanks and other water resources under the Kuttanad package designed by the famous agricultural scientist M. S. Swaminathan (MSSRF Annual report, 2009). 61
Control of water weeds Organic wastes accumulating in the water bodies give rise to eutrophication that leads to proliferation of water weeds like Salvinea and Eichornia. The Thanneermukkom barrage can be cited as the major reason for the explosive growth of alien aquatic weeds, due to a shift in the salinity gradient towards north of the bund. Other than saline water pumping, there has been no effective method for removal of these water weeds. Therefore, water weeds were also removed manually and the collected weeds were dumped under coconut trees in plantations. It is believed that these water weeds retain moisture in the surface soil for longer duration saving efforts of frequent watering. The women self‐help groups were educated about using water weeds as a supplementary substrate in addition to hay for the cultivation of mushrooms, but the study remained at the experimental level itself. 62
Annexure 4 Phytoremediation Phytoremediation was tried as a low cost method for water purification. Phytoremediation is the use of living green plants for in situ risk reduction and/or removal of contaminants from contaminated soil, water, sediments, and air. One of the main advantages of Phytoremediation is that of its relatively low cost compared to other remedial methods. Vetiver System was first developed by the World Bank for soil and water conservation and now being used in over 100 countries. In this study also, Vetiver grass was cultivated and transplanted into the polluted canals. This was selected on the basis of the review on Vetiver system ecotechnology for water quality improvement and environmental enhancement by Lavania et al. (2004). The Vetiver System (VS) is a system of soil and water conservation whose main component is the vetiver plant Chrysopogon zizanioides ‐ formerly Vetiveria zizanioides. This plant, commonly known as vetiver grass, is a clump grass originating in south India. There are many cultivars of vetiver grass but those originating in south India are sterile and non invasive. The Vetiver grass will tolerate high levels of nitrates, phosphates, heavy metals, and agricultural chemicals. The Vetiver Grass System is low cost and efficient system for erosion control and water conservation, soil stabilization, pollution control, waste water treatment, mitigation and prevention of storm damage and many other applications. Vetiver grass was transplanted into vetiver grass pots. After letting them harden for a while, the potted grass were replanted onto cut bamboo floats. Being hydrophytic, the plants do not require a separate medium to grow in water. The only arrangement required to make vetiver plants survive in water properly is a float to maintain the balance between roots and shoot and to make the plant stand erect. In the present study, coir ropes were wound criss‐cross in the bamboo frames and the seedlings were transplanted onto this float. These floats were put in the polluted canals and it was found that the water quality improved within 40 days period (table V1 and V2) Vetiver grass cultivation Bamboo floats with vetiver plants introduced in canals 63
Water purification studies were conducted in selected stations of the study area i.e., stn. 3 and 7. Station 7 was selected as a representative station to conduct embankment protection studies along with the water purification studies, as it was in the centre of the study area. Station 3 was selected based on the convenience of transplanting the floats from nurseries to the site. TABLE V1. Effect of phytoremediation using Vetiver on water sample from stn.3 for 40days treatment Parameter Pre‐treated (20/2/09) Vetiver (Post treated) (31/3/09) COD(mg/l) 200 168 BOD(mg/l) 0.816327 0.489796 DO(mg/l) 0.816327 1.142857 Phosphate (umol/l) 0.291 0.286 nitrite umol/l 0.136 0.141 Ammonia umol/l 28.36 26.11 Potassium mg/l 4 3.8 Sodium mg/l 60 53 TABLE V2. Effect of phytoremediation using Vetiver on water sample from stn.7 for 40days treatment Parameter Pre‐treated (20/2/09) COD(mg/l) 112 BOD(mg/l) Vetiver (Post treated) (31/3/09) 96 0.326531 0.326531 64
DO(mg/l) 0.979592 ‐‐‐ Phosphate (umol/l) 0.374 0.374 nitrite umol/l 0.09 0.085 Ammonia umol/l 48.45 43.22 Potassium mg/l 2.3 2.3 Sodium mg/l 102.5 98 65
Annexure 5
Awareness campaigns
Total of 4 awareness campaigns were conducted in the study area against the indiscriminate
dumping of wastes and highlighting the need to protect the water.
Date
Details of programme
conducted
Location where the
programme was held
Local
organisations
involved in the
programme
27-10-2007
Seminars, poster exhibition,
video show, quiz
contest and slogan
contest for school
and college students.
Cherupushpam Parish
Hall (Stn. 5)
Arpookara
Grama Vikas
Kendra
18-5-2008
Clean-up campaign
Entire study area (Stn. 116)
22-5-2008
Solid waste management by
‘Vermicomposting’.
Between stn. 2 and 3
Rajagiri
‘Outreach’
Service
Society,
Ernakulam
22-4-2009
‘Jala sandesa yatra’
Entire study area (Stn. 116)
Local
administration
Yuva Deepthi
Christian
community
organisation
Self-help
groups
1) A one-day awareness campaign on the protection of waterways and wetlands was held
on Saturday, 27 October 2007, at Cherupushpam Parish Hall in the project area, with
the cooperation of the local administration and the Arpookara Grama Vikas Kendra,
Yuva Deepthi and other community organisations in and around this region.
Programme comprised of seminars, poster exhibition, video show, quiz contest and
slogan contest for school and college students. Prominent personalities from different
66
disciplines of life in the region and Dr. P. S. Joseph, Executive Director of the Centre
for Earth Research and Environment Management (CEREM) made felicitatory talks
on the occasion. Prof. N.R. Menon, eminent Marine Biologist (former Director,
School of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology delivered a
lecture on the topic ‘Issues and solutions in the Vembanad backwater and connected
water bodies’. The programme was well attended by the public and students from the
nearby schools and colleges.
Inauguration
Lecture by Prof. N. R. Menon
Inaugural talk
Quiz programme
67
Prize distribution – slogan contest
Prize distribution – slogan contest
2) A waterway cleanup campaign was also organised in May 2008 to educate the people
of the dangers in dumping wastes into the adjacent waterbody and to create an
awareness in them about the need to conserve the water body. During this period,
the participants of this cruise collected and removed large quantity of solid
wastes, especially plastic carry bags and bottles weighing approximately 75kgs
along the stretch of the canal.
Waterway clean up campaign
Journey of “clean water “message
3) In the same month, on 22nd May 2008, another public awareness programme was
conducted on solid waste management, with emphasis on vermicomposting. Ms.
Treesa, a consultant of Rajagiri OUTREACH Service Society, Ernakulam
conducted class on vermicomposting. She demonstrated how the bio-wastes like
vegetable waste, paper, cattle feed waste etc are fed into the terracotta biocompost tanks, how they are pre-treated to make the environment conducive for
the growth of earthworms and how the tanks are maintained without any damage
68
to the worms. The compost would be ready after 40 days of treatment in the
tanks.
Ms. Treesa taking class
Audience attending waste management class
Vermicompost class in progress Terracotta vermicompost tank with lid.
4) An awareness campaign entitled ‘Jala sandesa yatra’ (journey with a message for
water conservation) was conducted, with the cooperation of local administration,
self help groups and student communities in the area. The procession was flagged
off by Mr.Thomas Chazhikadan, the Hon. Member of Legislative Assembly of
Kerala Government. The procession in country canoes through the inland
waterway spread the message on the importance of water protection in a changing
environment to improve health conditions. Handouts and pamphlets were
distributed to communities in the region on different steps needed to taken for
curtailing the spread of communicable diseases in the region.
69
Awareness campaigns helped in educating the locals the need for conservation of the
waterbodies. Adoption of solid waste management measures and phytoremediation in
selected areas of the study region has helped in bringing down the rate of aquatic
pollution. There has been considerable improvement in the water quality after the
implementation of these conservative measures. Section 3.1.2.3).
70
Annexure 6: Geospatial analysis
Suitability area assessment of water quality parameters, its causes and remedies‐ BOD As far as BOD is concerned <10 mg/l is considered to be suitable for life existence according to the International standards. So it can be observed that 56.83% of area of river in pre‐monsoon, 24.45% in monsoon and all the areas in post monsoon is showing the BOD values above 10 mg/l. It shows that the Biological Oxygen Demand is very high in post monsoon and is very low in monsoon season. To prepare suitability areas of BOD the pre‐monsoon, Monsoon and Post monsoon maps are spatially overlaid. 71
From the overlaid map it is understood that nowhere in the river we are getting suitability zones in all the three seasons and it can also be noticed that the moderately suitable areas having 88.55% of total area of the river. COD COD values in all the seasons are all above advisable limit (>5mgo2/l) which shows the worse scenario of the basin. 72
DO 90.45% of total area of the river in pre‐monsoon, 37.23% of monsoon and all the areas in post monsoon have less than 4 mg/l Dissolved Oxygen. This shows that DO is higher in Monsoon and very low in post monsoon. 73
E. coli The E. coli status shows that in pre‐monsoon season 55.34% of total area is in suffer side (<1000MPN index/100ml) and the rest in the unsafe. All the other seasons the E. coli distribution is within the permissible limit. Results and discussion From the observations obtained from the GIS spatial analysis and field investigations it is very much clear that the canals of Meenachil river even though looks clear for the naked eye facing high threat for its life existence. The spatial distribution of all the parameters is overlaid. From the overlaid map it is understood that 10.01% of the total area of the selected river portion is falling in the unsuitable zone and rest is in moderately suitable zone. 74
It can be noticed that in the majority of unsuitable area the Ecoli status is moderately suitable and some area it is suitable shows that the cause of pollution is not mainly by ecoli but by some other reasons. From the field observation it’s very much clear that waste disposal is the main cause of pollution. The plastic waste disposal and almost flat nature of the terrain will decelerate the self purifying capacity of the river. A buffer zone of 500m is generated around the unsuitable zone and overlaid on the landuse map. From the overlay analysis it is understood that the buffer zone falls mainly on the settlement with mixed crop, rubber and mixed crop. This shows that the source of pollutants is mainly concentrated in this region. The absence of unsuitable zone near to paddy region indicates the power of clay in paddy fields to reduce the adverse effect of pollutants. So it is very much understood that the clayey and clayey lateritic terrains are important to purify the river and point towards the importance of rejuvenation of clayey and lateritic terrains. This can only be achieved by planting trees especially on the tropical lateritic terrains. 75
76
77
78
Annexure 7‐ BIODIVERSITY STUDIES An assessment of the biodiversity of the study area was conducted based on the catch obtained by local community. It was found that the improvement in water quality has resulted in reviving the population of certain species of fishes whose numbers were steadily decreasing with the deterioration of water quality. Listed below are the fauna of the study region. Scientific name Remarks Labeo dussumieri Vernacular name (Malayalam) Pullen Danio malabaricus Paral Most dominant Channa striatus Varaal Most dominant Anabas testudineus Chempalli Less in numbers Channa orientalis Vatton Available Channa marulius Cherumeen Most dominant Xenentodon cancila Kolan Catch improved after water purification expts. Aplocheilus lineatus Poonjan Most dominant and distributed throughout the study area Wallago attu Vaala Less but available at certain locations Etroplus maculates Pallathi Dominant Etroplus suratensis Karimeen Improved availability Stolephorus indicus Kozhuva Less Puntius sarana Kuruvaparal Catch improved after water purification expts. Especially in polluted spots. Penaeus indicus Thelli Less, but improved availability Catch improved after water purification expts. 79
Xenochrophis piscator Neerkoli Increased Macrobrachium Konchu Less, but availability increased. A .lineatus
Danio malabaricus
Anabas testudineus
Etroplus.maculatus
Channa orientalis
Channa striatus
Horabagrus brachysoma
E. suratensis
C.marulius
Stolephorus.indicus
Heteropneustes fossils
Labeo dussumieri Mystus gulio
Wallago.attu
Xenentodon.cancila
Puntius.sarana
80
Appendix -4
Final Evaluation Report Summary
Project # (Office use) Project title: Water quality monitoring and low cost purification strategies for inland waterways of low‐lying areas. Country country / province / district India/Kerala/Kottayam Selected year 2007‐2009 Implementing organisation: Nansen Environmental Research Centre(India) Partner organizations: Centre for Earth Research and Environment Management NetRes The Energy Resources Institute (TERI) Project duration: month / year ‐ month / year August/2007‐ December/2009(28 months) 81
I. OUTLINE OF THE PROJECT
Issue/Sector Innovation in relation to technologies.
Total cost 85000USD (including 27000USD from UNEP-APFED)
1.
Background of the Project The proposed project is aimed at improving the water quality through implementation of low cost purification strategies for the best practices that are to be adopted in the study region, Meenachil river canals of upper Kuttanad region in the Arpookara Panchayat, Kottaym (Dt), Kerala, India. The Study region is the canals of Meenachil river, one of the major rivers in the low lying areas of upper Kuttanad in Kerala State, southwest coast of India. The drainage areas of this river basin is about 1250 sq.km with a length of 78km , having a steep gradient, fast flowing and normally fed by the Indian monsoon rains. This river finally enters into the Arabian Sea through one of the largest backwater systems in the west coast of India, called Vembanad lake before traversing through quite a number small canals and distributaries. The annual average discharge is about 1190Million.cubic meter. But the percentage of annual discharge during the lean season is only 13%. This chain of canals support inland navigation and other daily requirement of the rural people in this region whose major occupation is agriculture, fishing and farming associated activities. In the late 1970s, there constructed a barrage across the Vembanad lake to obstruct salt water intrusion into the paddy fields to intensify rice cultivation. But after many years and now, it is found that this barrage construction has failed in its actual objective and the rice production was reduced though the targeted production was threefold. There started many associated environmental and water quality problems as well in the downstream reaches of this river canals. The environmental condition of the region deteriorated further due to the development of new roads across the distributor channels clogging the water bodies, increased the severity of floods during peak monsoon rainy seasons and water logging in the areas whereas in dry seasons, the entire canal’s water levels are lowered and with no water movements and obstructing canal navigations. This would further accelerate the water borne diseases and its occurrence in the region is many fold in recent years. Bacteriological pollution and anaerobic conditions are major aquatic pollutions of its kind in the region due to uncontrolled solid waste dumping and open space human lavatories directly into the canals at certain under developed areas within the region. Similarly, spreading of freshwater weeds like Salvinia which hinders inland navigation and affecting water tourism in the region are also another problem to be tackled. Lack of civic sense, poor living standards and unaware of best and alternate practises are some of the reasons for this decrease in water quality in the region. This may accentuate eutrophication in the nearby lakes thereby triggering blooming of certain harmful/toxic species of algae in the coastal waters where this river inputs into the Arabian Sea through the Vembanad lake. So an improved control and maintenance of the water quality of this region would be a model for implementing similar controlling measures in the other water environments of the coastal regions of India thereby reducing pollution in water bodies. 2.
Project Overview (1) Project Objective/Expected Outcome 82
The overall objective of the project is: To improve the water quality of the selected canals of the study region through monitoring and adoption of low cost water purification strategies in general but not limited to the following sub objectives like: •
To make a feasibility study on the effectiveness of these natural materials to improve the water quality and erosion control measures. To make a demonstration of the identified low cost practises for water quality and navigational improvement Outputs Through adoption and implementation of low cost purification strategies and other sub objectives of the proposed project, it would deliver the following : 6. improved water quality of canals, surface and groundwater 7. Promotion of eco tourism and canal cruises through – employment generation for rural women and youth by people participation and promotion of cheap transportation 8. Preservation of biodiversity in the rivers, canals and wetlands of the study region. 9. Controlled growth of weeds, mosses and shrubs in the water body 10. A better waste management and reduction in bacterial pollution 11. protection of river banks by natural water weeds and herbs and reduction in suspended material increasing primary productivity through improved photosynthesis 12. Increase the living standard of poor fishermen by increased catch and utilisable water for clean environment. 83
3.
Background of the Project The proposed project is aimed at improving the water quality through implementation of low cost purification strategies for the best practices that are to be adopted in the study region, Meenachil river canals of upper Kuttanad region in the Arpookara Panchayat, Kottaym (Dt), Kerala, India. The Study region is the canals of Meenachil river, one of the major rivers in the low lying areas of upper Kuttanad in Kerala State, southwest coast of India. The drainage areas of this river basin is about 1250 sq.km with a length of 78km , having a steep gradient, fast flowing and normally fed by the Indian monsoon rains. This river finally enters into the Arabian Sea through one of the largest backwater systems in the west coast of India, called Vembanad lake before traversing through quite a number small canals and distributaries. The annual average discharge is about 1190Million.cubic meter. But the percentage of annual discharge during the lean season is only 13%. This chain of canals support inland navigation and other daily requirement of the rural people in this region whose major occupation is agriculture, fishing and farming associated activities. In the late 1970s, there constructed a barrage across the Vembanad lake to obstruct salt water intrusion into the paddy fields to intensify rice cultivation. But after many years and now, it is found that this barrage construction has failed in its actual objective and the rice production was reduced though the targeted production was threefold. There started many associated environmental and water quality problems as well in the downstream reaches of this river canals. The environmental condition of the region deteriorated further due to the development of new roads across the distributor channels clogging the water bodies, increased the severity of floods during peak monsoon rainy seasons and water logging in the areas whereas in dry seasons, the entire canal’s water levels are lowered and with no water movements and obstructing canal navigations. This would further accelerate the water borne diseases and its occurrence in the region is many fold in recent years. Bacteriological pollution and anaerobic conditions are major aquatic pollutions of its kind in the region due to uncontrolled solid waste dumping and open space human lavatories directly into the canals at certain under developed areas within the region. Similarly, spreading of freshwater weeds like Salvinia which hinders inland navigation and affecting water tourism in the region are also another problem to be tackled. Lack of civic sense, poor living standards and unaware of best and alternate practises are some of the reasons for this decrease in water quality in the region. This may accentuate eutrophication in the nearby lakes thereby triggering blooming of certain harmful/toxic species of algae in the coastal waters where this river inputs into the Arabian Sea through the Vembanad lake. So an improved control and maintenance of the water quality of this region would be a model for implementing similar controlling measures in the other water environments of the coastal regions of India thereby reducing pollution in water bodies. 4.
Project Overview (2) Project Objective/Expected Outcome The overall objective of the project is: To improve the water quality of the selected canals of the study region through monitoring and adoption of low cost water purification strategies in general but not limited to the following sub objectives like: 84
•
To make a feasibility study on the effectiveness of these natural materials to improve the water quality and erosion control measures. To make a demonstration of the identified low cost practises for water quality and navigational improvement Outputs Through adoption and implementation of low cost purification strategies and other sub objectives of the proposed project, it would deliver the following : 13. improved water quality of canals, surface and groundwater 14. Promotion of eco tourism and canal cruises through – employment generation for rural women and youth by people participation and promotion of cheap transportation 15. Preservation of biodiversity in the rivers, canals and wetlands of the study region. 16. Controlled growth of weeds, mosses and shrubs in the water body 17. A better waste management and reduction in bacterial pollution 18. protection of river banks by natural water weeds and herbs and reduction in suspended material increasing primary productivity through improved photosynthesis 19. Increase the living standard of poor fishermen by increased catch and utilisable water for clean environment. 85
(3) Inputs NetRes Institute (Showcase Facility) TERI contribution‐ By consultation for identifying and implementing proper project plan and dissemination of results through routine evaluation of the projects. The project work implementation and monitoring and evaluation through field visits and periodic review meetings. Implementing Organisation APFED Financial support‐ 27000/‐USD‐ which includes Project feasibility study, Consultancy and Demonstrable activities. NERSC contribution‐ 55000/‐USD as a major contribution for three years to study the fishery potential from satellite data for the coastal waters of southwest coast of India to which the Meenachil river enters via the Vembanad lake system. The contribution is towards meeting permanent staff expenses, logistic support, utilities, permanent equipments and furnished office spaces towards planning and execution of project activities. Others 86
II. EVALUATION Period of Evaluation 1.
August / 2009- December/ 2009 Summary of Evaluation Results (1) Relevance The key activities implemented in this project could improve the present water quality of the canals of the Meenachil river in the study region and also in the downstream reaches which would be more sustainable to use for the rural communities in the region. The proposed project approach has not been implemented anywhere to best of our knowledge as the resources like coconut shells, natural herbs and products mentioned in the proposal for water purification are available in the Asia‐Pacific region (Srilanka, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia to name few countries) untapped which is ecofriendly and hence this techno‐feasibility study can be transferred to these regions of interest. (2) Effectiveness A physical model (wind induced aerator system) for water purification was implemented which would be transferred to other sites which are remote and have no access to electricity supply but can utilise wind energy. The water quality improvement through adoption of phytoremediation techniques using Vetiver system from post and pre analyses of the samples have showcased the effectiveness of this project. The river bank erosion at selected sites of the canal banks could be controlled by riparian vegetation and bio‐wall construction and reduce the availability of suspended sediment load in the waterbody. Education of local people on how to maintain environment, sustainable utilization of local resources, improved water quality etc. Improvement in biodiversity of the region. (3) Self‐reliance Through adoption and implementation of low cost purification strategies like phytoremediation, riparian vegetation planting, bio‐wall construction, various groups involved can promote these techniques in the region as a whole, educate people living in the region on different aspects of human behaviour and the need for adopting better practises envisaged in the project, reach out into the rural communities to create awareness among the housewifes and maids on how to manage solidwastes without impairing the water environments. They can collect the natural products like coconut shells and other forms of herbs from the region and make available the material for the project pilot plan. The grant received from the major funding agency,NERSC,Norway could be utilised for the self reliance of the project for few more years. The work agreement executed with the partnering institute Centre for Earth Research and Environment Management for the continued water quality maintenance till August,2011 (Article 6.6 of MoU with CEREM) will also attribute to the self reliance of the project even after the tenure of the project. 87
(4) Participation The major stakeholders participating in this project are Self Help Groups (SHG), NGOs, family units in the rural areas, Women’s group and fishermen and local communities, volunteers and student groups. The best practices identified and developed through this project can be easily implemented in this region with their active participation. Fishermen and local communities are the direct benefiters and stakeholders of this project as they can provide the positive and negative impact of this project implementation. The student groups and volunteers can conduct awareness campaigns on water quality improvements and distribute small pamphlets on the do’s and don’ts for the public at large in this region in order to have a sustainable development of the region. 2.
Contributing Factors Post analysis of water quality of canals after the project implementation, Check for the increased biodiversity in the rivers, canals and wetlands of the study region, Identification of Controlled growth of weeds, mosses and shrubs in the water body and its area coverage, Self assessment of the waste management in the study region and analysis of reduction in bacterial pollution, A field investigation of river banks for natural water weeds and herbs to see the reduction in suspended material increasing primary productivity through improved photosynthesis at selected plots in the study region. 3.
Conclusion The loss of drainage facilities and water logging had led to the increased run off, soil erosion, and frequent floods and droughts in the study area. This also increased concentration of pollutants in the water, like the pesticide and nutrient residues, proliferation of aquatic weeds, siltation etc. which in turn had resulted in the loss of biodiversity, and frequent occurrence of water borne diseases in the area before the project implementation. The major water quality issues are: high COD at certain stations, hardness during post monsoon season, high seasonal BOD, low pH during non‐rainy periods, low DO levels, high values of total coliform where anthropogenic activity is more, low sodium level, and the presence of high amounts of major nutrients, nitrate, phosphate and nitrite. Salinity of the study area always remained fresh water itself. The major achievements were, Improved water quality of canals, surface and groundwater, preservation of biodiversity in the rivers, canals and wetlands of the study region, controlled growth of weeds, mosses and shrubs in the water body, better waste management and reduction in bacterial pollution, protection of selected river banks by natural water weeds and herbs as a model for implementing to other locations in the study region, and increase in the living standard of poor fishermen by increased catch and utilisable water for clean environment. 88
4.
Lessons Learned Phytoremediation using Vetiver system‐ One of the main advantages of Phytoremediation is that of its relatively low cost compared to other remedial methods. Phytoremediation also offers a permanent in situ remediation rather than simply translocation the problem. The best example of phytoremediation is using Vetiver system. Biowall construction to control bank erosion It is learned that natural plants like “Neerkoova” which belongs to the family of Aroidae (Araceae) angiosperm family , rhizone so highly poisonous having potential anti‐venom properties, tolerant to high acidic soils., have the sediment holding capacity to control bank erosion during flooding which can limit the transport of suspended sediments into the canals that impair light transparency and clogging of fish gills. So planting of these natural shrubs which was a traditional methods in this region is a viable alternative and appropriate practice of protecting bank erosion which is eco friendly in nature as it promote the sustainable utilization of local resources. Aerators that work on wind power: Such aerators are environment‐friendly and efficient in enhancing oxygen content, there by maintaining a healthy environment for aquatic organisms. 5.
Recommendations for the Project/IO (to be prepared by NetRes Institute) The project “Water Quality Monitoring and Low Cost Purification Strategies for Inland
Waterways of Low Lying Areas” during its implementation has been able to meet
and achieve all its objectives set out at the proposal stage. The project also led to
development of wind based aerator system which certainly would be useful for use
in areas where power supply is either not there or is erratic.
TERI recommends successful closure of the project.
89
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Appendix-6 -Pictures
The following pictures depict the environmental issues described above.
Ground water level during and after southwest monsoon (flood) 2007
The region during and after the floods in 2007
Country canoes-cheap way of inland transportation, fishing activity
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Duck farming
Agriculture
Abstraction of contaminated water for domestic use
Water contamination due to waste dumping and waste water outflow
95