Seasonal Dynamics of Microplastic Pollution in the River Ganga: A Case Study from Bihar

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs) are pervasive and have an impact on all types of habitats, including rivers. In recent years, the amount of research on MPs in rivers has significantly increased. Globally, microplastic (MPs) particles are discovered in environmental compartments and are thesubject of much research, particularly in aquatic environments. With a focus on seasonal differences between the pre-and post-monsoonperiods, this study investigates the temporal patterns of microplastic pollution in the Ganga river in Bihar, India. Three locations alongthe river were sampled, and the concentrations of MPs in both seasons were compared using a paired t-test. The average concentrationof all studied sites of MPs before monsoon is 1044.5 ± 317.81, and post-monsoon is 624.16 ± 247.08. The findings showed that thepre-monsoon season showed a considerable rise in MP levels. This surge is probably caused by both human activity, which intensifiesduring this season, such as agricultural runoff and garbage disposal, and the decreased river flow, which concentrates MPs in the watercolumn. To manage the invasion of MPs, the study’s findings emphasize the necessity of increased monitoring and mitigation activities,especially before the monsoon season. This study advances our knowledge of the dynamics of MP pollution in the Ganga River andemphasizes the need for seasonally appropriate conservation measures for this essential water supply.