UTTAR PRADESH JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY

Rajapukhuri Pond, located in Rampur village of Kamrup District, Assam, is an important freshwater resource supporting local biodiversity and community needs. The present study evaluates the physico-chemical characteristics of the pond water and examines seasonal variations and anthropogenic influences on its water quality. Water samples were collected twice monthly from February to May 2025, covering pre-monsoon and early monsoon periods, and analyzed following standard APHA (2017) procedures. Key parameters assessed included temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), free carbon dioxide (CO₂), total dissolved solids (TDS), and electrical conductivity (EC). The results revealed a gradual seasonal increase in temperature (19.8–24.0°C) accompanied by a corresponding decline in DO and CO₂, reflecting natural limnological processes. The pond water remained slightly alkaline (pH 7.32–8.21), while DO concentrations (6.19–8.74 mg/L) consistently remained above levels required to support aquatic life. Low TDS (43–47 ppm) and EC (86–102 µS/cm) values indicated minimal mineralization and limited anthropogenic disturbance. Comparison with Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines confirmed the suitability of the pond water for sustaining aquatic ecosystems. Overall, the study indicates that Rajapukhuri Pond maintains good ecological health and stable water quality conditions. Regular monitoring, protection of the catchment area, and community participation are recommended to ensure the long-term conservation and sustainable management of this freshwater ecosystem.