Chemometric Assessment of Anthropogenically Impacted Ancient Artificial Wetland, Bhojtal, India, for its Drinking Water Suitability and Hydrogeochemical Classification

Abstract

This study assessed spatiotemporal water quality, hydrogeochemical characteristics, and heavy metal contamination level of anthropogenically impacted an ancient artificial freshwater wetland, Bhojtal, India, which is crucial for drinking water supply and aquatic biodiversity. The study revealed significant (p < 0.05) seasonal variations in pH, magnesium, and dissolved oxygen levels exceeding permissible limits. Hydrogeochemical classification indicated Cl^‒-Ca²⁺/Mg²⁺ facies dominance post-monsoon. Entropy-based WQI results showed excellent water quality during the monsoon, which declined to good (67% samples) and medium (33% samples) post-monsoon. The trophic state index (TSI) indicated hyper-eutrophication, with values of 81.81 and 82.61. Heavy metals were within safe limits during the monsoon, but high cadmium and lead concentrations were found post-monsoon in the western (Karballa) and southeastern sides (Hallalpur) of the Bhojtal wetland. The study emphasizes the need for land use management to protect water quality, especially post-monsoon. The study signifies the anthropogenic impact on historically significant artificial freshwater wetlands regarding water quality, hydrogeochemistry, and heavy metal pollution, emphasizing the crucial role of effective land use management to sustain these freshwater wetlands for better human health and livelihood.