Physico-chemical dynamics and water quality assessment of drigh lake, Sindh, Pakistan

Muneer Ahmed Abbasi; Mukhtiar Ahmed Mahar; Abdul Rasool Abbasi

Authors

Muneer Ahmed Abbasi Centre for Environmental Science, University of Sindh Jamshoro, Sindh, Pakistan. Author
Mukhtiar Ahmed Mahar Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Science University of Sindh Jamshoro, Sindh, Pakistan. Author
Abdul Rasool Abbasi Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Science University of Sindh Jamshoro, Sindh, Pakistan Author

Keywords:

Drigh Lake, Water Quality, Physico-chemical Parameters, Seasonal Variation, Eutrophication, Wetland Management

Abstract

This study assesses the seasonal dynamics of physico-chemical parameters and evaluates the water quality status of Drigh Lake to understand its ecological condition and eutrophication risk. Seasonal water samples were collected from multiple stations within the lake and its inlets, and key parameters including temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, transparency, total suspended solids, and total dissolved solids were analyzed using standard field and laboratory methods. The results revealed pronounced seasonal variability across all parameters, with elevated temperatures, reduced dissolved oxygen, and lower transparency during summer months, indicating intensified biological activity and organic matter decomposition. Higher suspended solids and dissolved solids during periods of low water level highlighted the strong influence of agricultural runoff and evaporation-driven concentration effects. Although most parameters remained within national and international permissible limits, the observed trends reflect progressive nutrient enrichment and increasing eutrophication pressure. The findings demonstrate that watershed-driven inputs, combined with shallow lake morphology and seasonal hydrological fluctuations, are key drivers of water quality degradation in Drigh Lake.

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