Prof.  Sudip  Basack
Graphic Era Deemed to be University, Dehradun,  India

Title: Impact of Land Use and Population Growth on Water Quality in the Hooghly River Basin

Abstract:

The study investigates the impact of land use and land cover (LULC) changes on the water quality of the Hooghly River in India. The Ganga River, a vital water source for various uses, flows through five provinces before discharging into the Bay of Bengal. The research involved collecting and analyzing water samples from different locations along the Hooghly River to assess various water quality parameters. The findings reveal that the expansion of built-up areas and agricultural lands is reducing tree cover and water bodies, leading to deteriorating water quality. Notably, the study identifies Dakshineshwar, Shibpur, and Garden Reach as particularly vulnerable due to significant LULC changes and population growth. The water quality parameters assessed show an upward trend, with elevated levels in all sampling locations, particularly around Kolkata. While current values are not alarming, the continued deterioration could result in hazardous conditions, especially in densely populated areas with high freshwater demand. The research highlights the need for sustainable land use practices and improved water management to preserve the river's ecosystem and maintain water quality. The study underscores the importance of implementing strict measures to manage population density and effective LULC management to maintain the health and quality of surface water resources. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders in addressing the challenges posed by LULC changes and population growth, emphasizing the need for urgent action to prevent further deterioration of water quality in the Hooghly River.

Keywords: alkalinity; dissolved oxygen; dissolved solids; BOD; COD; pH; LULC

Biography:

Professor Sudip Basack, PhD, FIE, FIGS, CEng, MASCE is a civil engineering professional with significant academic experience at responsible senior positions in India and abroad. He published more than 125 technical papers in reputed journals and conferences and is recipient of several research awards at national and international levels. He is an active reviewer of numerous top-class international journals. He has supervised more than 10 research students at postgraduate (Masters and PhD) levels and executed sponsored research projects in different Universities. He also acted as consultant in several major infrastructure projects, Government and private. He has undertaken several academic visits in many countries including USA, UK, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, China, etc.

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Coauthor and Co-presenter:

Ghritartha Goswami

Research Associate
North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology

Ghritartha Goswami, B.E., M.Tech., C.Eng., AMIE, LM. IWRS, Aff.M. ASCE, is a civil engineer pursuing Ph.D. at NERIST, Arunachal Pradesh, holds a master’s in water resources engineering and management and a bachelor’s in civil engineering. With roles as Project Associate, Assistant Professor, and Teaching Assistant, he prioritizes research and education. His studies focus on water availability, climate change impacts on river basins, and saline water intrusion in coastal areas, reflected in His publications and active participation in international conferences. He has more than 40 publications in peer reviewed journals and reviewed several papers for reputed journals. Membership in ASCE, IEI, and IWRS features his collaborative approach, complemented by awards and leadership roles at national and international events.