Vol. 1, Issue 8, Part J (2015)

Abstract
In this present study, analysis of Vaigai River water quality in seven locations was carried out to determine the physical and chemical characteristics of water. The sampling sites were selected on the basis of their distance, such as Sholavandan (S1), Thiruvedakam (S2), Thenur (S3), Kochadai (S4), Arappalayam (S5), Goripalayam (S6) and Teppakulam ((S7). The pH value 7.0 is considered as best and ideal. The pH is range from 7.38 to 7.87 which was the permissible limit. Total dissolved solids and Electrical conductivity were found moderate in S1 to S6 site and S7 were recorded maximum. The total hardness and alkalinity also recorded maximum in S7 site than that remains. The Calcium, Mg, and Fe were recorded maximum in S7 site rest of others were permissible limit. Free NH3 was found maximum in S5 (1.2mg/L), S6 (1.5mg/L) and S7 (2.5mg/L) site. Nitrite was observed high in S3 (1.5mg/L). Phosphate was found objectable limit in S3 (1.2mg/L) and S7 (2.0mg/L). Finally, the result was concluding that the surface running water was contaminated at few sampling sites namely S5 (Arappalayam), S6 (Goripalayam) and S7 (Teppakulam) due to the anthropogenic activity. But the sampling sites S1, S2, S3 and S4 are recommended for use to drinking and other purpose.