Quantification of Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons in the Pollution Sources of Karnaphuli River: Impact and Remediation for Sustainable Environment Management

Abstract

The Karnaphuli River in Bangladesh, a lifeline for socio-economic activities, plays a crucial role by providing a considerable water supply. However, the aquatic environment is under threat from contamination originating from several sources such as industrial wastewater discharge, maritime operations, wastages from garments and leather industries, fertilizers industries, and the discharge of urban runoff. This study revealed the total petroleum hydrocarbon contamination of the Karnaphuli River. This study delves into the total petroleum hydrocarbon concentrations at several key points along the Karnaphuli River. Near the Amanat Shah Bridge, the total petroleum hydrocarbon level is at 29.70 mg/L, whereas it spikes to 84.67 mg/L in Chaktai Khal, indicating substantial variability across different locations. Mahesh Khal registers a total petroleum hydrocarbon concentration of 52.07 mg/L, followed by 31.09 mg/L in Sadar Ghat, 70.04 mg/L in Khal No 10, and 31.87 mg/L in the KAFCO outfall. These findings illustrate the pervasive nature of total petroleum hydrocarbon contamination throughout the river, thereby posing a grave threat to its ecological integrity and the well-being of communities reliant on it. Comparative analysis with a previous study spanning an 18-year interval unveils a decline in total petroleum hydrocarbon concentrations, hinting at potential improvement in environmental conditions. Although this trend offers a glimmer of hope, it underscores the persistent need for vigilant monitoring and concerted efforts to curtail pollution sources. By elucidating the evolving landscape of total petroleum hydrocarbon contamination in the Karnaphuli River, this study furnishes invaluable insights into its environmental implications and paves a way for informed decision-making in environmental management.