Pollution Assessment of Untreated Textile and Dye-Intermediate Wastewater in Ahmedabad Industrial Estate, Gujarat, India: Implications for Water Quality Management for Effective Treatment Strategies

Our study focused on characterizing the physicochemical properties of untreated textile and dye-intermediate effluents from Ahmedabad Industrial Estate, Gujarat, India. This crucial pre-treatment assessment helps us understand the pollution levels and environmental impact of these industrial wastewaters and ensures regulatory compliance. We comprehensively tested various parameters to determine their environmental footprint. Beyond measuring the particulate and dissolved matter through Total Solids (TS), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), we also assessed pH (indicating acidity or alkalinity), turbidity, and colour (revealing suspended particles and dyes). Other vital metrics included Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), which quantifies organic pollutants, along with levels of nitrate, ammoniacal nitrogen, sulphate, and chloride, helping us in pinpointing specific contaminants and salts. Monitoring these characteristics is paramount for evaluating pollution and upholding water quality standards. For sample collection, we gathered textile and dye-intermediate industrial effluent directly from discharge points in 10-liter plastic containers. These containers were rigorously cleaned with distilled water, then rinsed with the sample water itself before being filled, leaving a small air gap, and finally sealed with airtight lids. The collected samples were subsequently transported to the Sophisticated Instrumentation Centre for Applied Research & Testing (SICART) for detailed physicochemical examination. We analysed the various physicochemical characteristics of the wastewater using standard procedures from Indian Standards (IS), American Public Health Association (APHA), and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). Our findings revealed that the textile and dye-intermediate wastewater exhibited a pH range of 6 to 7.4. Turbidity levels were recorded at 554 NTU and 188 NTU, with colour measurements reaching 3462 Pt. Co. and 1090 Pt. Co. Total Solids (TS) ranged from 3042 to 3396 mg/l, while Total Suspended Solids (TSS) were between 632 and 146 mg/l. Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) fell within the range of 2410 to 3250 mg/l. Chloride levels were found to be 299.90 and 499.84 mg/l. Furthermore, ammoniacal nitrogen and nitrate levels were 8.44 - 34 mg/l and 101.8 - 608.8 mg/l, respectively. Sulphate levels ranged between 295 and 608 mg/l. Notably, Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), a critical indicator of organic pollution, was remarkably high, ranging from 4800 to 8800 mg/l. Based on these significant findings, it is imperative to implement various treatment techniques, such as oxidation processes (like Fenton and photo-Fenton) and enzymatic treatment, to effectively reduce the severe wastewater pollution originating from these industrial sectors in Ahmedabad Industrial Estate, Gujarat, India.