Evaluation of Physico-Chemical Characteristics of Water in Pariyaram Panchayath, Thrissur District, Following the 2018 Kerala Flood

Abstract

Floods are among the most destructive natural disasters, significantly affecting water quality and ecosystem stability. The present study evaluated the impact of the 2018 Kerala flood on the physico-chemical characteristics of water in flood-affected and unaffected areas of Pariyaram Panchayat, Thrissur district. Water samples were collected from affected wards and a control (unaffected) ward and analyzed for key parameters including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity, alkalinity, hardness, chloride, phosphate, and nitrate using standard analytical methods. The results revealed a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in pH, turbidity, and alkalinity, along with a significant increase in chloride levels in flood-affected areas compared to the control. However, EC, TDS, hardness, phosphate, and nitrate did not show significant variation between the two groups. Despite these changes, all measured parameters remained within permissible limits of international drinking water standards. The observed variations indicate the influence of flood-induced processes such as organic matter decomposition, sedimentation, and contamination from surface runoff. Overall, the findings suggest that while floods can alter water quality, the long-term impacts may be moderate due to natural recovery mechanisms. Continuous monitoring and appropriate management strategies are essential to ensure safe water for livestock and human consumption in flood-prone regions.