Contamination of trace metals (Zn and Cu) in the coastal water along Veraval coast, Gujarat (India)

Abstract

The effect of trace metals (Zn and Cu) on coastal water of Veraval coast (Gujarat) India has been assessed in three locations along coast and compared with non-polluted area behind Jaleshwar temple, half km away from polluted area in Veraval coast as reference locality for one year during 2003 on monthly basis. The concentration of trace metals in coastal water were analyzed using stripping voltametry. The locations mean concentration of trace metals (Zn and Cu) in coastal water from polluted areas were 55.29 μg/l and 4.89 μg/l respectively. Where as, the mean concentration of trace metals (Zn and Cu) in coastal water at reference locality were 13.27 μg/l and 2.30 μg/l respectively. There was significant variation observed between polluted seawater and seawater at reference locality based on ANOVA. Present study showed that seawater near two industry and harbour was contaminated with trace metals than the reference locality. The present study is an attempt to assess the influence of anthropogenic activities in this area with specific reference to the concentration of trace metals.