Lake and Groundwater Quality Assessment in India: A Review of Physico-Chemical, Statistical, Geospatial, and Governance Approaches

https://doi.org/10.46610/JoWRPS.2026.v011i03.001

Abstract

India’s lakes, reservoirs, and groundwater aquifers constitute critical freshwater resources for drinking, irrigation, and ecological purposes. However, rapid urbanization, industrial discharge, and agricultural runoff have widely degraded both surface and subsurface water bodies. This review synthesizes the literature on lake and groundwater quality assessment in India, covering major water bodies including Hussain Sagar, Dal Lake, Upper Lake Bhopal, Chilika Lake, Loktak Lake, and groundwater systems. Key physico-chemical and biological parameters are evaluated, including pH, EC, DO, BOD, nutrients, and heavy metals. Eutrophication and Trophic State Index assessment using Carlson’s methodology is discussed. Methodological approaches include physico-chemical surveys, Water Quality Index calculations (weighted arithmetic, CCME-WQI, NSF-WQI), multivariate statistical techniques such as PCA, and GIS-based remote sensing. The Indian regulatory framework — the Water Act 1974, CPCB, BIS IS 10500, NLCP, and National Water Policy 2012 — is critically examined, identifying institutional fragmentation and enforcement gaps. Research gaps include underrepresentation of lake-specific studies, limited remote sensing-based trophic assessments, and the need for integrated lake-aquifer quality assessments. Recommendations include strengthened governance, standardized methodologies, and community-based monitoring.