Dipu Sukumaran^1,, Josna Raj P²

The present study focus on the water quality analysis of Kuttiyadi River, Kerala, with special reference to saline water intrusion. Salinity intrusion has a serious effect on the water supply in the Kuttiyadi river basin area in the recent years. Kuttiyadi River is the only source of water for supply during summer in Vadakara Municipality and nearby villages. The upstream sampling point which 22.5 km from the river mouth has salinity of 6.83 ‰ showed the rate of intensity of saline intrusion. Through Water quality analysis it is found that salt water intrusion in the river also leads to contamination ground water in the river sides. In some extent salt water intrusion the reason behind deterioration of surface water and ground water in private wells near river side. The results showed significant correlation with salinity and anions like Chloride, and Sulfate. Cations like Magnesium, Sodium, Calcium and Potassium are also significantly correlated with salinity of both surface water and ground water.

salinity intrusion, Kuttiyadi River, drinking water, water pollution