Hydrochemical Analysis of Six Sacred Lakes of Sikkim

Abstract

Sikkim, the north-eastern state of India has more than 200 lakes, whose serene beauty attracts tourists from all over the world. Some of the lakes act as the sources for drinking water while some are considered sacred and are used for religious purpose. Chemical analysis of lake water may provide vital information about the possible reasons of anomaly, level of pollution, if any as well as effect of anthropogenic activities. In the present study, water chemistry of six important and sacred lakes of Sikkim, namely Gurudongmar, Lamapokhari, Kheheopalri, Karthok, Menmecho and Kupup, has been analysed and critically examined. Water samples were collected from these lakes and their chemical analysis has been carried out. General water quality parameters of these water samples were tested and compared with the standards laid by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to find whether the lakes are suitable for domestic and agricultural uses. Results have revealed difference in the lake water quality of these lakes with respect to different chemical parameters. Anomalous concentrations of dissolved oxygen (DO), calcium (Ca) and total dissolved solids (TDS) obtained in water samples of certain lakes have been examined and correlated with natural and anthropogenic factors. This paper has discussed the possible reasons of anomalous chemistry of these sacred lakes and has advocated for their environmental protection.