Assessment of Upstream and Downstream Surface Water Microplastic Pollution in Lower Himalayan Gaula River, Uttarakhand, India.

This study examines the prevalence, characteristics, and distribution of microplastics in the Gaula River, Uttarakhand, India. Microplastics collected from surface water samples at four upstream and four downstream locations along the Gaula River in Uttarakhand were analyzed using SEM-EDS and FTIR spectroscopy to assess their concentration and composition. A total of 212 microplastic particles were identified, with higher downstream accumulation (122 particles) than upstream (90 particles). Fibers and fragments were the dominant shapes, primarily composed of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP). FTIR confirmed polymer-specific functional groups, while SEM-EDS revealed smooth surfaces with minimal heavy metal adsorption, indicating recent contamination. Findings suggest improper waste disposal and urban runoff as primary pollution sources. This study enhances understanding of microplastic pollution in freshwater ecosystems, particularly in urbanized regions, and underscores the urgent need for effective monitoring and mitigation strategies to reduce environmental impacts.