Metal Distribution and Short-Time Variability in Recent Sediments from the Ganges River towards the Bay of Bengal (India)

A study of metal distribution and short-term variability in sediments from the Ganges River to the Bay of Bengal reveals severe sediment dynamics, likely driven by tidal hydrodynamics and seasonal monsoon floods. Analysis of metals such as Cd, Co, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Zn showed no vertical gradient, indicating rapid mixing or redistribution of contaminants. Multivariate analysis identified distinct associations between metals (Co, Zn, Pb, Cu) and organic carbon, pointing to different geochemical processes linked to domestic and industrial effluents, agricultural chemicals, and aquaculture discharges. The research also highlighted an environmental risk associated with copper concentrations in the Kadwip area, emphasizing the impact of anthropogenic activities on this UNESCO-recognized Human Patrimony site, particularly during monsoon periods.

Bonnail, E., Antón-Martín, R., Riba, I., & DelValls, T. Á. (2019). Metal Distribution and Short-Time Variability in Recent Sediments from the Ganges River towards the Bay of Bengal (India). Geosciences, 9(6), 260. https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences9060260