Surface Water Quality Variation Under the Influence of COVID-19 Quarantine on the Example of the Yamuna River (Delhi)

Abstract

\n During the current COVID-19 pandemic, various forms of lockdown have been adopted, globally. This study evaluated the contamination changes (pre, post and during the lockdown) in the Yamuna River following the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown from 25 March–30 May (India). Samples of the surface water were taken from 9 sampling points to determine the physico-chemical, and biological concentration changes in surface water. The investigation showed the fluctuating results of the parameters. The peak saturation of physico-chemical parameters were observed prior to lockdown, followed by the post and during lockdown phases. The BOD and COD concentrations declined by 66% and 39.25%, respectively, compared to the pre-lockdown phase, while Faecal Coliform declined by over 40%. The improvement shown in this period indicates that it is possible for the Yamuna River to be cleaned up easily if people and the government come together.