Impact of solid waste on water quality of Bishnumati River and surrounding areas in Kathmandu, Nepal

Abstract

Haphazard dumping of solid waste on the banks of the Bishnumati River in the Kathmandu valley has severely deteriorated the surface and subsurface water quality. The river water as well as shallow wells in the vicinity exhibited very high conductivity as well as high nitrate, nitrite, and COD concentrations. Though the water in the shallow wells is not potable, it is being used by the inhabitants. Improper waste management has caused environmental pollution, increased public health hazard, and adversely impacted on urban economy.