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The slopes of Himalayan piedmont and foothill plain are being modified by the Himalayan origin river systems. In this study, spatiotemporal dynamics of channel planform of braided River Jaldhaka have been estimated using United States Army Map (1956) and landsat satellite images (1980-MSS, 1990-TM, 2000-TM, 2010-ETM+ and 2022-OLI) for the delineation of banklines, channel length, sinuosity index, braiding index, channel widths, identification of partial channel avulsion sites and bankline migration using Digital Shoreline Assessment System (DSAS) toolbar. Linear Regression Rate, Net Bankline Movement and End Point Rate were also calculated. Results revealed that the lower reach is more sinuous (maximum average channel sinuosity 1.65) compared with reach-I (1.29) and II (1.11)). The maximum channel width was in the year 2022 (968.6 m) and minimum average channel width was in 1956 (239.87 m). The maximum BI value (3.55) has been calculated in the sub reach-2 (SR-2, reach-I). Similarly, DSAS output shows maximum average EPR values (6.43 m/year) in lower reach which was most erosion prone bank. Bank facies study showed that non-cohesive bank materials accelerate rapid rate of channel avulsion and bank erosion. The variation of discharge, velocity, presence of vegetation and anthropogenic interventions controls the nature of planform changes of Jaldhaka River. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ambient air quality is continuously declining especially in emerging countries because of rapid rate of urbanization, industrialization, and allied activities. Thus, the principal objective of this research is to inspect the spatiotemporal variation of particulate matters and to identify the drivers of pollutant dispersal. The month‐wise PM10 and PM2.5 data of 2022 and 2023 were obtained from the West Bengal Pollution Control Board. Meteorological datasets such as wind speed (m/s) and wind direction (degree) were collected from the NASA power access website. The HYSPLIT (Hybrid Single‐Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory) model was applied to identify the pollutant's trajectories. Results showed that Purulia station stood highest in case of absolute AQI 715 (23‐1‐2022 at 7 a.m.), PM2.5 483.47 µg/m3 (23‐1‐2022 at 8 a.m.), and PM10 682.28 µg/m3 (23‐1‐2022 at 7 a.m.), respectively. During winter, the vertical expansion of particles was within the 100‐m boundary layer while during summer, it dispersed vertically and crossed 2000 m above the ground surface due to the combined effect of atmospheric conditions such as wind speed, wind direction, air pressure, and temperature. Moreover, the industrial outputs of Jharkhand and West Bengal play a significant role in elevating the pollution level. Plantation of suitable pollution‐resistant plants including Banyan (Ficus bengalensis), Mango (Mangifera indica), Peepul (Ficus religiosa), Guava (Psidium guajava), Kadam (Neolamarkia cadamba), Neem (Azadirachta indica) is a suitable management technique against pollution in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document titled "Resilient and sustainable water management in agriculture" emphasizes the importance of water resources and agricultural systems for sustainable development. It discusses the use of computer-based technologies like remote sensing, GIS, and machine learning in understanding and managing water resources. The document introduces a special issue on water management in agriculture, which includes research papers covering topics such as optimal reservoir operation, crop water demand assessment, groundwater contamination, rainfall data estimation, agricultural drought vulnerability, irrigation water quality, groundwater potential zones, groundwater quality assessment, and the toxic effects of copper oxide nanoparticles on aquatic organisms. These papers offer valuable insights for decision-making and planning in water resource management and sustainable agriculture. The collection of research papers also covers various topics related to environmental science and geospatial analysis, utilizing remote sensing data, GIS technology, and analytical methods to assess aspects like land use, water quality, and morphometric parameters. The findings highlight the effectiveness of these approaches in decision-making for sustainable development and resource management. Additionally, one paper explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on environmental pollution and emphasizes the need for short-term and long-term solutions. Overall, these papers provide valuable insights for researchers and policymakers in the field of environmental science. [Extracted from the article]

Flash flood after the breaching of South Lhonak Lake (glacier lake outburst flood (GLOF)) along with prolonged rainfall event in the first week of October 2023 significantly triggered numerous landslides along the side of the river, roads, and vulnerable slopes within the upper catchment of Teesta basin, Sikkim. In this paper, we present documentation on the occurrences of series of landslides just after the flood and heavy rainfall event in upper Teesta basin and try to find out the relevant causes. Primarily, flash flood due to glacial lake outburst and extensive rainfall accelerated series of landslides; however, the landslides are controlled by some other secondary factors including soil and slope condition, lithological diversity, geological discontinuities, and anthropogenic influences. The InSAR coherence analysis significantly shows the lowering of coherence value (decorrelation) in the moraine dam area within pre and post GLOF event which indicates breaching of the dam. The result of the slope stability assessment showed that majority slopes along the river Teesta are highly vulnerable with less safety factor and low cohesiveness of soil materials. Furthermore, the northern part of the MCT (Main Central Thrust) is composed by high-grade metamorphic rocks with exposed structures (high lineament density) that provoke landslides. Consequently, the result also highlighted that most of the slides along the side of Teesta occurred due to high water discharge and elevated gauge height after the GLOF event. Here, NH-10 (National Highway 10) runs on the high grade vulnerable litho-units and in between Dikchu and Chungthang, NH-10 is passing at the close proximity of river Teesta. So, different pockets of North Sikkim along the NH-10 were engulfed by high river discharge and gauge height due to large scale destruction of Chungthang Hydroelectric Power Plant constructed across the river Teesta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, there are many uses of metal complexes, especially in the fields of medicinal chemistry and catalysis. Thus, fabrication of new complexes which perform as a catalyst and chemotherapeutic drug is always a beneficial addition to the literature. Herein, we report three heterocyclic thiosemicarbazone-based Pd(II) complexes [Pd(HL1)Cl] (C1), [Pd(L2)(PPh3)] (C2) and [Pd(L3)(PPh3)]Cl (C3) having coligands Cl and PPh3. Thiosemicarbazone ligands (H2L1, H2L2 and HL3) and the complexes (C1–C3) were characterized methodically using several spectroscopic techniques. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction methods reveal that the structural environment around the metal center of C2 is square planar, while for C1 and C3 it is a slighty distorted square plane. The supramolecular network of compounds was built via hydrogen bonds, C–H⋯π and π⋯π interactions. Density functional theory (DFT) study of the structure of the complexes supports experimental findings. The application of these complexes as catalysts toward Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reactions has been examined with various aryl halides and phenyl boronic acid in PEG 400 solvent. The complexes displayed good biomolecular interactions with DNA/protein, with a binding constant value of the order of 105 M−1. C3 showed greater binding efficacy toward these biomolecules than the other complexes, which might be due to the cationic nature of C3. Furthermore, antitumor activity of the complexes was studied against the human triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell line MDA-MB-231. It was found that C3 was more toxic (IC50 = 10 ± 2.90 μM) toward MDA-MB-231 cells than the other complexes. A known chemotherapeutic drug, 5-fluorouracil, was included as positive control. The programmed cell death mechanism of C3 was confirmed. Additionally, complex-induced apoptosis was confirmed and occurred via a mitochondria-dependent (intrinsic) pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Numerous approaches have been adopted to evaluate limited freshwater resources and the associated health hazards due to excessive amounts of fluoride in drinking water. The study aims to assess the degree and severity of dental and skeletal fluorosis and examine the broader effects of fluorosis on human health and society in the Manbhum-Singhbhum Plateau region, India. Methods: The Community Fluorosis Index (CFI) and Dean's Index have been used to measure the magnitude and severity of dental and skeletal fluorosis. Questionnaire surveys, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), and appropriate statistical methods have been applied to identify the social impacts. Risk-prone zones have been identified through overlay analysis using geoinformatics. Results: About 54.60% of people in 67 villages of this part of the Manbhum-Singhbhum Plateau are affected in varying degrees of fluorosis ranging from very mild to mild, moderate, and severe dental fluorosis. Among these 67 villages, Janra (Manbazar I) and Hijla (Barabazar) have the most severely affected people. School dropout (n = 426), social isolation (n = 149), remarriage (n = 21), and physically disabled (n = 75) have also been reported. The study shows that about 414.29 km2 of the Manbhum-Singhbhum Plateau comes under the high-risk-prone category. Conclusions: The societal and environmental awareness of the fluorosis-affected individuals is almost absent in this region. Economic hardships, lack of education, inadequate health care facilities, water scarcity, and lack of awareness increase the magnitude of health hazards and societal vulnerability of the people in this region, who are largely dependent on natural resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

River bank erosion is a fluvio-hydrological hazard, and sometimes, it turns into disaster in the human-encroached river bank and flood plain. The principal objective of this study is to detect the river bank erosion potential zone using new Bank Erosion Susceptibility Index (BESI) model and spatiotemporal shifting of river Raidak-II (1980–2020). Sedimentary bank facies (SBF) analysis was conducted to identify the nature of cohesiveness of bank materials. The result showed that the maximum average lateral shifting (213.20 m) was recorded in the year 1990 (right bank), whereas the minimum average shifting (77.32 m) was measured in the year 2020 (right bank). The result also showed that the right bank of Raidak-II was mostly oscillated due to poorly sorted quaternary non-cohesive bank materials. The Bank Erosion Hazard Index (BEHI) model showed that 46.15% and 50% bank erosion sites are fallen in high-to-extreme bank erosion susceptibility zones in the years 2020 and 2022. In the case of BESI model, 69.23% and77.77% bank erosion sites are confined in high-to-extreme bank erosion susceptibility zones in the years 2020 and 2022. Therefore, BSEI model gives more precise results compared with BEHI due to three additional factors. The poorly sorted non-cohesive quaternary sediments stimulate high rate of bank erosion within Himalayan foreland basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a novel organic receptor, CPI [(E)-3-(4-(9H-carbazol-9-yl)phenyl)-2-(1H-benzo[d]imidazol-2-yl)acrylonitrile], was rationally designed and successfully fabricated for selective and sole recognition of CN− ions over other competitive anions through an obvious chromogenic and ratiometric emission change in DMSO. The distinct and prominent color change upon the addition of CN− can be attributed to the typical ICT process, which is induced by the deprotonation of acidic NH protons in the imidazole moiety. The sensor displayed strong solvatochromic effects in commonly used organic solvents such as n-hexane, toluene, diethyl ether, DCM, THF, DMF and DMSO. The chemical structure of the sensor was characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, 1HNMR, 13CNMR, IR and mass spectroscopy. Significantly, the probe can function as a fluorescence-based sensor for the efficient detection of low-level water in organic solvents. The solid-state emission properties of CPI were successfully applied to recognise cyanide in a solid-state platform with naked eye-visualized distinct color change. The probe can be made reusable by adding TFA into the CN− treated probe solution. The detection limit of CPI towards CN− was determined to be 4.48 × 10−8 M. More importantly, the sensor is capable of detecting CN− in food samples and has been employed for wastewater treatment. Besides, easy-to-prepare CPI-coated test strips provide a simple, reusable and easy-to-handle protocol for the qualitative identification of CN− conveniently. Finally, density functional theory and time-dependent density functional theory were performed to verify the experimental outcomes theoretically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims to investigate the dynamics of channel bar morphology of river Raidak-II within the Himalayan foreland basin on multi-decadal timescales (1980–2020). Multi-temporal Landsat satellite images have been used for identifying and monitoring different types of channel bars and their morphological changes. Here, several indices (braiding index, total sinuosity and mode of bar development) are used to measure the braiding intensity. Additionally, fluvio-hydrological and field investigation methods have been adopted to assess the channel form and behaviour affecting the evolution of channel bars. Further, sediment grain size distribution has been analysed to understand the reach-scale variation of instream sediment characteristics. The results show that higher value of all the braiding indices in reach-1 indicates its high braiding intensity compared to other reaches of the river. Numerical investigation shows spatiotemporal dynamics of bar morphology (bar length, bar width, bar area and bar perimeter) of nine stable bars during the period 2000–2020. This study shows the reach-scale variation of different fluvio-hydraulic parameters, which are highly associated with the bar dynamics. Grain size analysis reveals that most of the materials are coarser in the upper and middle reach of the river. Consequently, coarser sediments are being deposited in high energy flow environment of upper and middle reach while finer sediments are deposited by low energy flow regime in the lower reach. However, morphological changes of different types of channel bars indicate their dynamic nature. These changes have occurred due to the collective effects of different factors, including variable discharge, frequent floods, physiographic control, active tectonics, huge sediment supply and channelisation in the study area. Research Highlights: The present study shows higher value of braiding Index, total sinuosity and bar mode in reach-1 indicating its higher braiding intensity compared to another two reaches of the river. The study indicates spatiotemporal dynamics of bar length, bar width, bar area and bar perimeter during the period of 2000–2020. This scientific study exhibits reach scale variation of different fluvio-hydraulic parameters which are highly associated with the spatiotemporal dynamics of bar morphology. The scientific analysis revealed that different types of bars have been developed and modified in the study area due to different natural and anthropogenic factors during recent past time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The process of riverbank erosion is often accelerated by natural events and anthropogenic activities leading to the transformation of this natural process to natural hazard. The present study aims to calculate past, present, and future riverbank erosion and accretion (EA) rates using an automated digital shoreline analysis system (DSAS) model of the lower part of the Ganga River in India. Moreover, this study evaluated the EA with bank erosion hazard index (BEHI) and river embankment breaching vulnerability index (REBVI). In this study, satellite images (1973, 1987, 1997, 2007, and 2020) were used for EA rates calculation and field survey data (bank materials, geotechnical parameters, embankment structure, hydraulic pressure, etc.) were used for BEHI and REBVI scores calculation. From 1973 to 2020, the average bank EA rate was found to be 0.119 km/year and 0.046 km/year at the left bank and 0.052 km/year and 0.066 at the right bank. During this period, six villages/mouza (smallest administrative unit of India for revenue collection) were very highly vulnerable due to very high left bank erosion. The long-term prediction (2020–2045) estimates that the average EA rate will be 0.164 km/year and 0.021 km/year at the left bank and 0.031 km/year and 0.045 km/year at the right bank. From this period, 21 villages were highly vulnerable due to very high left bank erosion. Moreover, BEHI and REBVI scores were very high in these villages. RMSE, Student's t-test, and R2 statistical techniques were used for DSAS model validation. Therefore, RMSE (from 0.103 to 0.247), Student's t-test, and R 2 (0.82 for the left bank and 0.79 for the right bank) values justified the acceptance of the model. This study may help decision makers as the spatial guidelines to understand future trends of riverbank EA rates for land-use planning and management strategies to protect riverbanks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydro-geomorphological maps help to understand the diversity and evolution of landforms and landscapes. The development of geomorphological mapping techniques has been significantly advanced from classical to computer-based digital mapping through methodological development. Manbhum-Singhbhum Plateau is located in the eastern section of the Precambrian-origin Indian Chota Nagpur Plateau. Digital geomorphological mapping with hydrological aspects and investigation of groundwater changes are highly required for the planning and hazard management of any region. In this connection, the main objectives of this study are (1) to classify the landforms by applying the algorithms of Wood & Jennes, 2006, (2) to comprehend the relationship between lithology with structures and landforms through the evolution of time and (3) to investigate groundwater storage changes and recent landcover patterns through google earth engine (GEE) using advanced spaceborne thermal emission and reflection radiometer (ASTER), Terra Climate and Landsat 8 datasets. The result showed that the maximum area of the entire plateau is covered by high ridges and midslope drainage with shallow valleys (36.98%) followed by canyons with incised streams (17.24%). The smallest area coverage is under the upper slope zones with mesas (1.46%). Local midslope ridges and hills in the plains are covered around 6.47%, whereas plains occupy 11.81% of the Manbhum-Singhbhum Plateau. Results have also been verified by collected waypoints. Furthermore, groundwater storage changes showed a negative trend (− 2.5 to − 3.7 cm) in the entire region, while high ridge areas with steep slopes face severe conditions. This research is most helpful for proper landuse planning and applied geomorphological issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New Pd (II) and Pt (II) complexes (C1/C2) with a O,N,N donor pincer ligand, 4‐hydroxy‐3‐((E)‐1‐(((Z)‐phenyl (pyridin‐2‐yl)methylene)hydrazono)ethyl)‐2H‐chromen‐2‐one (HL) were synthesized and methodically characterized by several spectroscopic and XRD techniques. Absorption and fluorescence techniques were used to assess the mechanism of interaction of the complexes with bovine serum albumin protein. MTT assay was executed to investigate the antiproliferative activity of the complexes with several cancer cell lines (MCF‐7, HCT116, A549, and HepG2) along with a normal cell line (PBMC). Both C1 and C2 showed better antiproliferative activity with HepG2 cell line (IC50 value of 15.3 and 5.1 μM, respectively). A cytotoxicity study was performed, and complex C2 exhibited a better antiproliferative activity as compared to C1. The morphological changes were also examined by staining methods, and fragmented DNA unveiled that the cell death took place through apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In India, Joint Forest Management (JFM) programme was first introduced in the year 1972 at Arabari forest range in West Bengal with the collaboration of local community and forest department for the protection of reserve forest and improvement of rural livelihood. Subsequently, in 1990 the JFM programme was further extended at nearby Bhadutola forest range of Paschim Medinipur (West Bengal, India). The evaluation of this programme with respect to ecological and economic indicators has not been done. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of JFM scheme in two sites and also assess the ecological impacts of such programs. Applying relevant research methods like focus group discussion (FGD), standard of living index (SLI), livelihood dependence index (LDI) and measurement of forest dependency, the effectiveness of JFM project has been assessed for the sustainable forest management. The ecological impacts were calculated using the value coefficient method through implied for ecosystem service functions. The results showed that the forest dwellers of Arabari forest range are getting more benefits like different non-timber forest products (NTFP) than Bhadutola forest range community. It is stated that around 85% respondents are highly satisfied with the implementation of JFM project. In the recent years, the standard of living index (SLI) of almost sixteen villages under JFM project has been significantly improved. The ecological impact for both the forest ranges clearly shows a positive effect on the ecosystem service values through food production, raw materials, genetic resources, climatic regulation and soil erosion control strategies. The Arabari forest range has shown more positive changes in ecological services function than the Bhadutola forest range. Therefore, this model needs to be applied effectively in different vulnerable forest ranges of tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world for sustainable forest resource conservation as well as improvement of livelihood of forest dwellers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the ubiquitous and multifaceted role of copper ions in various biological processes, we report herein the one-pot facile synthesis, X-ray structure, Hirshfeld surface analysis, enzyme-like activities, and biomolecular interactions of three mononuclear copper(II) complexes, [Cu(L)(X)] (1–3) with a tridentate quinoline-based salicylaldimine Schiff base (LH) having an N2O donor set where X denotes NCS, N3, and NO3 for complexes 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Single-crystal X-ray study, spectroscopic techniques, DFT, and TD-DFT calculations were all used to fully characterize the complexes. The bio-inspired catalytic activities of the synthesized complexes were spectrophotometrically evaluated for the aerial oxidation of 3,5-di-tert-butylcatechol (3,5-DTBC) and 2-aminophenol (OAPH) in acetonitrile. The results of ESI mass spectrometry, EPR analysis of the reaction mixture, and DFT computations established that the aforementioned oxidation is metal-mediated and radical-driven, leading us to propose a viable mechanistic scheme. In complex 3, coordinated nitrate probably confers greater lability, allowing it to be the most effective enzyme for catecholase and phenoxazane-synthase activities. The biological activity of complexes 1–3 and the ligand LH towards calf thymus DNA and proteins (bovine serum albumin (BSA)) was explored using absorption and fluorescence spectral titrations, which affirmed that the compounds underwent avid binding with DNA, with high binding affinities (Kb) of approximately 104–105 M−1. The observed DNA binding constants and viscosity measurement data suggested an intercalative mode of DNA binding with the copper(II) complexes. Spectral evidence also supports the high binding propensity (on the order of approximately 105 M−1) of the complexes with the protein. They actively suppressed the protein's intrinsic fluorescence in a static quenching mode, as further determined by fluorescence lifetime titration of protein with the complexes. Circular dichroism and synchronous spectroscopic experiments supported the protein's conformational alterations mediated by copper(II) complexes (1–3) in the microenvironment of the tryptophan residue of the protein. The typical binding distance between BSA and complexes was also computed using fluorescence resonance energy transfer. Of the three complexes (1–3), complex 3 stands out as the most efficacious. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Confluence of river channels plays a significant role in channel avulsion, flood plain evolution and dynamics of the fluvial system. The principal objectives of the present study are (i) to analyze the direction and degree of confluence shifting through the recent past (1955–2020) by applying geospatial techniques and (ii) to find out the probable causes of confluence dynamics of the Raidak river system within quaternary geological sites of a Himalayan foreland basin in West Bengal, India, applying fluvio-geomorphological and sedimentary bank facies. Modified Normalized Difference Water Index method is also used. The result shows that the Raidak-Sankosh confluence (RSC) shifted by 9.94 km of the total distance between 1955 and 2020, whereas Raidak-I-Torsa confluence (RTC) has shifted 4.29 km overall distance during the same period. Both confluences were shifted toward the south and south-east directions. Total erosion and accretion area at the proximity of RSC and RTC has been registered as 40.1 sq km and 47.57 sq km and 39.67 sq km and 37.99 sq km, respectively, for the 65-year period. The key factors of confluence dynamics are regular flood events and channel avulsion, non-cohesive bank materials and huge channel bed sedimentation with multiple bars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tectonic activities and catastrophic flood events significantly assist to the process of channel avulsion and formation of river cutoffs on alluvial floodplain. The principal objectives of this research are (i) to examine the mechanism and causes of neck cutoff formation of river Raidak-1, India applying geospatial techniques, old maps and bank facies (1955–2019) and (ii) to investigate the dynamics of meander channel geometry using fluvio-hydrological techniques. Geospatial techniques and field based bank facies analysis have been used in this study. The result showed that the river channel has been significantly shifted (during the time span 1955–2019) owing to lateral channel migration resulting into formation of several neck cutoffs on the floodplain. Meander geometry study revealed that radius of curvature, meander wavelength, meander amplitude and meander belt width have been fluctuated during the entire study periods. The threshold value (less than 5°) of apex angle of two tangents at meander loop and neck distance (less than 1 km) helps to form regular neck cutoffs. The results show that high sinuosity, threshold value of meander loops; major flood events, high discharge and non-cohesive bank materials are responsible for the development of neck cutoffs. Moreover, probable sites of future cutoff formation have also been identified. Therefore, this study would give proper insights for river management approach particularly on dynamic Himalayan foreland basin, India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Kolkata metropolitan area population growth, built-up land expansion, and infrastructure development shrinkages wetland area and degrades wetland health. Wetland health index was computed using composite-indexing (CI) and fuzzy-AHP (FA) models. Both CI and FA models performed well to assess wetland health where FA outperformed CI. The area under curve value ranges from 0.728 to 0.780 for CI and 0.745 to 0.855 for FA model. During the last two decades, the growth rate of built-up land was 1.86% per year and the shrinkage rate of wetland was 1.56% per year. The spatial coverage of excellent wetland area was decreased from 52.46% to 43.11% over last two decades, but the area under very poor wetlands have increased from 5.55% to 9.62%. Due to wetland health degradation, ecosystem service value was decreased by 23.50% over the last two decades. Wetland health has direct relationship with wetland size, which needs further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Periodic forest fires destruct to biodiversity, ecosystem productivity and multiple ecosystem services. Forest fires are currently turning a leading cause of forest degradation. The principal objective of this research is to predict forest fire vulnerable zones over Similipal biosphere reserve (SBR; Odisha) using different machine learning (ML) models, such as support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF) and multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARS). Different resampling methods (CV and bootstrap) have also been applied for optimizing the result and better accuracy. Results show that 10-fold cross validation (CV) technique performed best on SVM model (AUC = 0.83) whereas bootstrap performed best on RF (AUC = 0.80) and MARS model (AUC= 0.84). The main advantage of MARS model is that it only uses input variable and significantly increases the performance of the model. The novelty of this research is application of various ML algorithms through resampling techniques to reduce the biasness and improves the reliability of the models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dynamics of ecosystem service value (ESV) of various wetlands has been assessed by researchers globally. But the impact of spatio-temporal variation of landscape metrics on ESV in the lower Gangetic plains has not been examined, fully. The present work has established linkages between landscape metrics and ESV in Kolkata urban agglomeration using support vector machine and multivariate regression analysis. Result indicates that wetland area has been reduced by 5.26%, 13.67% and 9.03% during the periods 1990-2000, 2000-2010 and 2010-2020, respectively and the ESV contributed by wetlands has been decreased by $131428, $323674 and $184649, respectively during the same period at an annual rate of 0.85%. Number of patches, mean patch area and edge density are the main determinants of wetland fragmentation and decreased by 44.12%, 10.23% and 8.65%, respectively during the last three decades. A wetland restoration strategy based on dynamic restoration, reactive restoration and wetland creation for the study area has been formulated, which can guide for sustainable management of wetland resources in Kolkata urban agglomeration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urbanization has profound influence on the changes of land use and land cover, which on the other hand exert significant impact on ecosystem services and their values, especially in the urban agglomerations. Kolkata urban agglomeration of India has been selected to determine the causes in changes of ecosystem services under present and projected land use land cover scenario. Land use land cover maps of 1990, 2000, 2010 and 2020 were prepared by support vector machine method, using LANDSAT satellite imageries and projected up-to 2040 using CA–Markov model. Built-up land was increased by 65.39% during 1990–2020 and will further increase to 76.88% by 2040. Built-up lands are mainly encroaching crop lands and wetlands. During the period of fifty years (1990–2040), the ecosystem service value will decrease from $38,486.49 to $28,060.79, with annual rate of decrement of 0.54%. During the same period, the spatial extent of very low ecosystem service value will be increased from 16.60 to 58.88%; whereas, the area coverage of very high ecosystem service value will be decreased from 2.69 to 2.35%. Water supply contributed highest ecosystem service value followed by disturbance regulation and nutrient cycling; whereas, lacking in soil formation, pollination and biological control services contributed lowest. The study will help in decision making process for sustainable management of natural resources and also provide useful guideline for the quality improvement in urban ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global ecosystem has been significantly disrupted on various spatiotemporal scales over the last three decades due to human activities. Geospatial technology can quickly, effectively, and quantitatively to evaluate the spatiotemporal change of eco-environmental quality (EEQ). The present study is focused on novel approach of Remote Sensing based Ecological Index (RSEI), using Landsat Imagery data to assess environmental conditions and changes pattern. Four ecological indicators were prepared in the year 1990, 2000, 2010 and 2020 of Kolkata urban agglomeration (KUA) to evaluate the ecological environmental condition. The principal component analysis (PCA) and spatial autocorrelation analysis can relate all indicators with each other's and RSEI. Out study indicated, greenness and wetness have a positive effect on EEQ of the province, but both dryness and heat have a negative effect. However, it should be noted that greenness has a greater impact on the eco-environment than the other three indicators. Based on the RSEI values, we have categorized the environmental standards of the study area into four groups—very good (0.81−1.00), good (0.61−0.80), acceptable (0.41−0.60), poor (0.21−0.40), and very poor (0.00−0.20), where high values ​​indicate that environmental quality is stable and healthy for living organisms and low values ​​indicate relatively unstable and threatening conditions of the environment. The status of RSEI showed that 9.02%, 12.29%, 12.79% and 37.23% of an area was under poor to very poor condition in the year of 1990, 2000, 2010 and 2020 respectively. Good to very good condition of RSEI values was increased from 19.12% to 34.074% during 1990 to 2010, but declined of RSEI value 9.47% during 2010 to 2020 due to urban expansion. Here, Moran's I values fund that 0.265, 0.543, 0.396 and 0.367 in the year 1990, 2000, 2010 and 2020 respectively. The result of Moran's I values indicate that clustering nature. The present study can helpful for the decision making of ecological management guided by planners and policy makers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) was employed as a sacrificial substructure and two-dimensional support to develop magnetic cobalt ferrite-carbon nitride (CoFe2O4/g-CN) composite via a one-step solid combustion method. The catalyst activated peroxymonosulphate (PMS), through the interconversion of Co2 + /3+|surf. and Fe2 + /3+|surf. on its surface for degradation of reactive dyes (RDs). Excellent ferromagnetic nature (44.15 emu g−1) of the catalyst led to its efficient magnetic separation. With an optimum catalyst and PMS dose of 0.4 g L−1 and 1.5 g L−1, 99% RD removal was achieved for textile effluent (pH 9.5–10), under UV irradiation (48 W). In-depth radical scavenging experiments and EPR analysis confirmed the dominance of radical-based degradation process. Plausible degradation and mineralization pathways of RDs were proposed through identification of intermediates by LCMS/MS analysis. In brief, this study elucidates an exclusive strategy towards the use of g-C3N4 as fuel for facile synthesis of magnetic CoFe2O4/g-CN as a remarkable photocatalyst for activation of PMS towards mineralization of various industrially relevant RDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New Pd(II) and Pt(II) complexes, [Pd(HL)Cl2] (C1) and [Pt(L)Cl] (C2) with ONN donor pincer ligand, 5-(diethylamino)-2-((Z)-((E)-(phenyl(pyridin-2-yl)methylene)hydrazono)methyl)phenol (HL) were synthesized and thoroughly characterized using spectroscopic techniques. X-ray structures of the complexes revealed that HL acts as bidentate N,N and tridentate O,N,N chelator in Pd(II) and Pt(II) complexes, respectively. The antiproliferative activity of the complexes was explored against four different human cancer (MCF-7, HCT116, A549, HepG2) cell lines. However, the maximum cytotoxicity was seen in the HepG2 cell line [IC50 = 6–12 μM] for both the complexes. IC50 for both complexes, C1 and C2, toward human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (hPBMC) cells were found to be >200 μM. The cytotoxicity of platinum complex (C2) was comparable to that of the cisplatin in HepG2 cell lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

River Damodar (India) is one of the most significant tropical large rivers and this river is carrying predominantly industrial effluents, urban sewage, and non-degradable chemical agricultural fertilizers. Several industries, cities, and townships directly depend on this important river throughout the year. It is highly essential to evaluate its surface water quality, characteristics, and improvement status during the COVID-19 lockdown and unlock phases. The major objectives of the present study are to analyse changing nature of heavy metals (Zn, Cd, Pb, Ni, Cr, and Fe) and microbial load (TVC, TC, and FC) of river water and to identify heavy metals impact on water quality and human health in pre, during, and after unlocking of COVID-19 lockdown. Here, a total of 33 water samples have been collected in the pre-lockdown, lockdown, and unlock phases. The results showed that decreasing trend of the microbial load was found in the lockdown phase. Heavy metal pollution index (HPI) illustrated that all samples are highly polluted (HPI > 150) during the pre-lockdown phase, while during the lockdown phase; HPI showed that around 54.54% of samples have been positively changed (low pollution level). During the unlock phase, 45.45% of samples were again amplified to the high pollution level. Pearson's correlation coefficient and hierarchical cluster analysis indicated strong relation among heavy metals with faecal coliform at a 0.05% level of significance. Noncarcinogenic hazard index (HI) shows the higher possibility of health risk (HI > 1) particularly for children in all the phases and during the lockdown phase, 36.36% of samples showed no possible health risk for adults (HI < 1). However, HI of dermal contact showed no possible health risk for children and adults in the assessment periods. This applied research can definitely assist planners and administrators in making effective solutions regarding public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Sundarban mangrove or tidal influenced natural ecosystem is extremely productive and providing multiple goods and services to millions of people. In the last few decades, the quality and quantity of mangrove ecosystem are being deteriorated. The main objectives of this current research are (i) to investigate the ecosystem service values (ESVs) using a time series satellite data (1975, 2000 and 2020) and different unit values (ii) to analyze the dynamic pattern of carbon sequestration through InVEST model and (iii) determination of ESVs change hotspots by Getis-Ord Gi* method. Here, mangrove forest has the highest ecosystem service value and highest carbon sinker. The total loss of ESVs was estimated 3310.79 million USD during last 45 years in Sundarban Biosphere Reserve (SBR) due to high natural and anthropogenic adversities. InVEST model also revealed that the total static carbon storage over the study area was 48.87, 46.65 and 43.33 Tg for the year 1975, 2000 and 2020 respectively. Total 6313944 mg/6.31Tg loss of carbon has been observed in the case of mangrove forest during the overall study period (1975–2020). So, illegal human encroachment should be strictly (through law and regulations) restricted within Sundarban mangrove ecosystem for the benefits of people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scarcity of groundwater is a severe problem in this region due to over exploitation of groundwater from unconfined hard rock aquifers. The main objectives of this study are to analyse the spatiotemporal variability and fluctuation of groundwater table and to predict the location of groundwater depression pockets. Total 21 consecutive years (1996–2017) groundwater monitoring well data (pre- and post-monsoon) have been collected from CGWB, Government of India. The nonparametric Mann–Kendall trend analysis and standardized precipitation index (SPI) have been applied to detect the trend of groundwater level and rainfall variability, respectively. Exponential smoothing has also been fitted for future prediction. The pre- and post-monsoon results (1996–2017) showed that around 77% (22 stations) and 78% (23) monitoring stations were indicating declining trend of groundwater table at the rate of −0.006 to −0.205 m/year and −0.005 to −0.192 m/year, respectively. Similarly, future (2040) groundwater depression result predicted that around 75% (21) stations, the groundwater table will be depleted above 5 m during pre-monsoon while about 53% (16 stations) monitoring wells, the groundwater table will be fallen above 5 m during post-monsoon. Consequently, around 52% (15) and 50% (14) stations are being faced groundwater drought in the recurrent interval of above 2 years during pre-monsoon and post-monsoon, respectively. Driving factors of water table depletion are huge withdrawal of groundwater for dry farming and reduction of recharge areas due to rapid land use modification. The uniqueness of this study exhibits the nature of declining trend of groundwater table and identification of depression pockets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shortage of potable water is a global problem, and this problem can be met by searching new areas where groundwater is available. GIS is an effective and necessary tool to identify groundwater potential zones in an area. In the present study, groundwater potential zones (GWPZs) were identified in the Kangsabati River basin of east India having an area of about 6488 km2 using multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) and analytical hierarchy process (AHP). The criteria like geology, geomorphology, elevation, slope, drainage, lineament, curvature, topographic wetness, land use/land cover, and soil were extracted from satellite data and the weights for each parameter and its sub-parameters were assigned through analytical hierarchy process based on their respective relevance as influencing factors for groundwater recharge. Very low, low, moderate, high, and very high groundwater potentiality represent 28.93%, 30.56%, 19.75%, 14.62%, and 6.11% area, respectively. The low-lying flat plains of the southeastern section, as well as the centrally located dam, are ideal for groundwater recharge, while the upland plain of the northwestern part, with its hard rock terrain, is less so. This outcome has been verified using pre-monsoon and post-monsoon groundwater depth data, indicating that the strategy is most appropriate for this region. Thus, the groundwater potential zone maps remain very useful for conducting extensive ground-based hydrogeological studies that facilitate the identification of suitable bore well/dug well sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Groundwater is a vital and purest form of natural resource. In the recent years, various anthropogenic causes threat its natural quality. Therefore, its suitability for drinking, irrigation and other purposes make doubtful conditions of human well-being, especially in developing countries. In this present study, groundwater quality was evaluated for drinking, irrigation and human health hazard purposes particularly in Chotanagpur plateau fringe of India. In total, 58 water samples were collected from different locations in pre-monsoon (February–March 2020) and post-monsoon (October–November 2020) seasons to delineate seasonal variation of groundwater quality according to as reported by WHO (WHO guidelines for drinking-water quality, World Health Organization, Geneva, 2011) guidelines. Groundwater Quality Index (GWQI) and Heavy metal Pollution Index (HPI) have been applied to assess the suitability of drinking purposes. Irrigation parameters (SAR, SSP, MAR, PI, KR) showed the significant deterioration of water quality in pre-monsoon than post-monsoon period. Major cations (such as sodium, calcium) and major anions (such as bicarbonate, nitrate and fluoride) exceeded their standard limit in both the seasons. Non-carcinogenic health risk is found due to heavy metal contamination through drinking water. The health risk index was higher for children in comparison with adults. This research finding can definitely help to planners and administrators for immediate decision making regarding public health (for groundwater quality improvement). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present study highlights the development of carbon‐loaded SBA 15 membrane on clay‐alumina tubular support and its performance on the CO2 separation efficiencies from different mixture gases. To modify the large pores of SBA 15 by graphitic carbon, low molecular weight phenol–formaldehyde (PF) resin was incorporated into the mesoporous channel followed by calcination under inert atmosphere. The modified ordered pore structure of the membrane has been characterized by low‐angle XRD, TEM, and pore size distribution analysis. The chemical state of the deposited carbon phase into the SBA 15 pores was analyzed by X‐ray photoelectron and Raman spectroscopy. Carbon having graphitic nature mainly in graphene oxide has been deposited into the mesopore of SBA 15 resulting decrease in pore size from 8.9 to 1.0 nm. Finally, the developed SBA 15 carbon membranes were characterized by CO2 permeation and separation selectivity of CO2/CH4, CO2/CO. Highest CO2/CH4 separation factor was achieved as 16.9 with CO2 permeance 13.6 × 10–8 mol/m2/s/Pa at 200 kPa feed pressure by the 20% resin with 2 times coated membrane. In flue gas analysis, highest CO2/CO separation factor of 32.8 was achieved. This study offers an observation on CO2 separation from simulated BF gas for the first time and the results show the potential of the developed SBA 15/C composite membranes in commercial application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Worldwide spread out of COVID-19 in a short-time has brought a significant decline of road traffic, tourist flow and industrial ventures. During this emergency period, the restricted human dealings with nature have appeared as blessing for health of the total environment. The variation of atmospheric O3 may modulate the range of UV index (UVI) at any region of the earth. The objective of the study is to examine the variation of UV index over the megacities of India with respect to tropospheric O3 level modification during COVID-19 lockdown. The meteorological or environmental data (temperature in °C, gust in km/h, wind speed km/h, relative humidity in %, air pressure in mb and cloud cover in okta) of four selective megacities of India (Kolkata, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai) during and pre lockdown period have been obtained to comprehend about the variation of UV index and tropospheric O3. The descriptive statistical applications i.e. standard deviation, standard errors and K-means clustering have been done through standard statistical software. In the present study, t-test has been used to understand level of significance of surface O3 and UVI during pre-lockdown (2019) and lockdown (2020) phase. The result shows that the four major megacities in India namely New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai have experienced the vibrant diminution in terms of the concentration of UV index with slightly increasing the tropospheric O3 level during the lockdown phase. The higher accumulation of O3 during the lockdown in the lower atmosphere of four megacities does not exceed the permissible limit. The excess amount of O3 has remarkably contributed to trap the harmful UV radiation which has lowered the UVI in these worst polluted megacities of India. In the meantime, the prominent reduction of NOx during the lockdown period decreases the titration impact to O3 and this mechanism helps to revitalize the ozone concentration level. The uniqueness of the current study is highlighted the ground reality regarding reduction of UV index and amplification of tropospheric O3 concentration during lockdown phase. This study definitely assists to make new environmental policy, act and law for recover the health of the total environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The floodplain wetland habitat in the lower Gangetic plains of West Bengal played a significant role in protecting from environmental degradation like pollution, lowering groundwater table, natural hazards, and others as well as supports for human wellbeing. Thus, it is needed to investigate the health status of wetlands and suggest restoration strategies to protect the livelihood patterns dependent on wetlands. This paper presents the health of the wetland ecosystem by comprising the wetland ecosystem health index (WHI) in 2011 and 2018 at the block level of Malda district, as a part of the lower Gangetic flood plain using the pressure–state–response model (PSR model) and AHP method. A total number of six Landsat satellite images and statistical census data were used to determine the wetland health. Wetlands are classified as very healthy (2.81–3.33), healthy (2.41–2.80), sub-healthy (2.01–2.40), unhealthy (1.61–2.00), and sick (0–1.60) category on the basis of the wetland ecosystem health index score. The results of this study showed that the wetlands located surrounding English Bazar, Manikchak, Ratua-II, and Kaliachak-II blocks have a sub-healthy to very healthy condition in 2011 but changed to unhealthy to sick category in 2018 due to the increase of rapid urbanization, population density, and development activities. These areas have belonged to the sub-healthy to sick category in the year 2011 as well as 2018 due to high wetland pressure. Our observation reveals that the ecosystem service value provided by wetlands decreased by 62.51% and 20.46 in the observed period. Management of WEH should emphasize on large (>100 ha) and medium (51–100 ha) sizes of wetlands in the Diara region of West Bengal. Developing local-level institutions and setting restoration goals are useful strategies to manage wetland resources, and protecting biodiversity should be guided by the Government organization and NGOs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the recent years, ground water vulnerability or more specifically contamination of unconfined aquifer has been intensified due to multiple reasons. A GIS-based DRASTIC model was used for assessment of groundwater vulnerability on upper Dwarakeshwar river basin, India. Seven intrinsic hydro-geological parameters like depth of water table, net recharge, aquifer media, soil media, topography, the impact of vadose zone and hydraulic conductivity were considered to assess the magnitude of vulnerability. Different weights and ratings were assigned according to their relative significance and successfully running of the model. Data were collected from 34 different locations within the basin and DRASTIC Vulnerability Index (DVI) was applied to identify the ground water vulnerable zones. DVI values show the range from 90 to 170 and it was classified into five zones such as very low, low, moderate, high, and very high, respectively. Here, ArcGIS 10.4 software was used to design the various digital thematic maps. The GIS analysis shows that around 1.18%, 11.87%, 60.93%, 23.41%, and 2.61% areas fall under very low, low, moderate, high, and very high vulnerable zones respectively. Statistical analysis such as single parameter sensitivity analysis and map removal sensitivity analysis show that the depth of water table is the most sensitive parameter for groundwater contamination in the study area. Validation of this model was checked by K+ concentration in the groundwater sample of the study area which indicates very high correlation (R2 = 0.94) with the DRASTIC vulnerable zones. The overall analysis indicates that the near-surface aquifers are most vulnerable to the contamination in upper Dwarakeshwar river basin area. This scientific study will definitely assist to the regional planners and policy makers for sustainable ground water development and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global economic activities were completely stopped during COVID-19 lockdown and continuous lockdown partially brought some positive effects for the health of the total environment. The multiple industries, cities, towns and rural people are completely depending on large tropical river Damodar (India) but in the last few decades the quality of the river water is being significantly deteriorated. The present study attempts to investigate the river water quality (RWQ) particularly for pre- lockdown, lockdown and unlock period. We considered 20 variables per sample of RWQ data and it was analyzed using novel Modified Water Quality Index (MWQI), Trophic State Index (TSI), Heavy Metal Index (HMI) and Potential Ecological Risk Index (RI). Principal component analysis (PCA) and Pearson's correlation (r) analysis are applied to determine the influencing variables and relationship among the river pollutants. The results show that during lockdown 54.54% samples were brought significantly positive changes applying MWQI. During lockdown, HMI ranged from 33.96 to 117.33 with 27.27% good water quality which shows the low ecological risk of aquatic ecosystem due to low mixing of toxic metals in the river water. Lockdown effects brought river water to oligotrophic/meso-eutrophic condition from eutrophic/hyper-eutrophic stage. Rejuvenation of river health during lockdown offers ample scope to policymakers, administrators and environmentalists for restoration of river health from huge anthropogenic stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Picture fuzzy graphs are an extension of intuitionistic fuzzy graphs. Balanced picture fuzzy graph is a special type of picture fuzzy graph (PFG). In this study, the definition and important properties of PFG like, average PFG, balanced PFG, size, order, density of a PFG, isomorphism, the direct product of two PFG, etc have been studied. The necessary and sufficient conditions for balanced picture fuzzy graphs have also been studied in this article. Beside this, we proposed an algorithm to test whether a PFG is balanced or not. The proof of correctness and an illustration of the proposed algorithm is presented in this article. Lastly, an application of balanced PFG to business alliance is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various developmental projects and economic actions such as mining, industries, urban expansion, and agricultural activities contribute toxic heavy metals into the soils and it adversely affects to human health and broadly the environment. For the scientific study (coal mining region of Eastern India) around 120 soil samples were collected from top (0 – 20 cm) and subsurface soil (20 – 50 cm) of coal mining, semi mining and non mining type of land use sites to assess ten heavy metals applying standard methods and indices for the assessment of pollution load and human health risk. Statistical analysis clearly indicated that Fe, Mn, Zr are the most dominantly distributed in the study region. Coefficient of variance (CV)showed that there was very less variation in the metal values among samples of any particular landuse site. Correlation coefficient (0.05% level of significance) depicts that metals were very strongly correlated with each other in every site of Neturia block. Igeo (Geo- accumulation index) values of Fe and As indicated moderate to low pollution in the topsoil of study area. It is because of their regional background value. Enrichment Factor (EF) also showed thatcontamination of Fe ismainly supplied by natural factors (EF < 2)i.e., weathering of parent rock in all over the study area. All other heavy metals indicated their anthropogenic sources (EF > 2)on top and subsurface soil both of three landuse site. Degree of contamination (Cdeg), modified degree of contamination (mCdeg), contamination factor (CF) and pollution load index (PLI) clearly suggest that topsoil of coal mining sites is most polluted than two other sites. Subsurface soil of mining sites also indicated comparatively higher pollution load than subsoil of semi mining or non mining sites. PLI values have been classified into four groups i.e., high pollution (> 6), medium pollution (6 -3), low pollution (3 – 1) and no pollution (< 1) zone. There was no PLI value < 1 in topsoil of the study area. But subsurface soil of non mining site indicated no pollution to the soil. Spatial mapping using Inverse Distance Weightage (IDW) on Arc GIS 10.4 software showed clear variation of metal concentration and pollution load to the top and subsoil of the study area. Human health risk of non – carcinogenic typeisdue to heavy metals intake of topsoil through three exposure pathwaywhich indicates the health risk of HI dermal> HI ingestion> HI inhalation for both the adult and children. Mean values of total HI showed that children are more prone to health risk in comparison with adult. There was no soil sample that exceeds its HI values > 1 for adults and thus no obvious health risk was found from soil heavy metals for adults.On the other hand, topsoil of mining sites indicated HI values >1;therefore, children are prone to health risk in this site. The present investigation suggests that coal mining region is highly polluted by their heavy metal burden on soil. Industrial and semi urban areas of semi mining region are also affected by heavy metal dust to its soil. Agricultural activities in non-mining region indicated lower pollution than other landuse sites. Remedial measures are highly needed to control heavy metal pollution of different landuse sites at colliery region to sustain environmental quality and human health as well. Modern scientific technologies and public awareness should be very useful on this way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, it is established that the partial lockdown system assists to improve the health of the total environment due to inadequate anthropogenic actions in different economic sectors. The ample research on fitness of environment has been proved that the strict imposition of lockdown was the blessings of environment. The river Damodar has historical significance and lifeline for huge population of Jharkhand and West Bengal state of India but in the recent years the water quality has been deteriorated due to untreated industrial effluents and urban sewage. The main objective of this study is to examine the water quality of river Damodar during and prelockdown phase for domestic use and restoration of river ecosystem. A total of eleven (11) effluent discharge sites were selected in prelockdown and during lockdown phase. A new approach of water quality assessment, i.e., water pollution index (WPI) has been applied in this study. WPI is weightage free, unbiased method to analysis of water quality. The result shows that the physical, chemical and heavy elements were found beyond the standard limit in prelockdown period. The cation and anion were arranged in an order of Na2+ > K+ > Ca2+ > Mg2+ and Cl− > So4− > No3− > F− in both the sessions. WPI of prelockdown showed that about 100% water samples are of highly polluted. WPI of lockdown period showed that around 90.90% samples improved to 'good quality' and 9.10% of samples are of 'moderately polluted.' Hypothesis testing by 't' test proved that there was a significant difference (ρ = 0.05%) in values of each parameter between two periods. Null hypothesis was rejected and indicated the improvement of river water quality statistically. Spatial mapping using Arc GIS 10.4 interpolation (IDW) helps to understand spatial intensity of pollution load in two periods. This research study should be helpful for further management and spatial diagnosis of water resource of river Damodar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sudden lockdown recovers the health of the total environment particularly air and water while the country's economic growth and socio-cultural tempo of people have been completely hampered due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Most of the industries within the catchment area of river Damodar have been closed; as a result, significant changes have been reflected throughout the stretch of river Damodar. The main objective of the study is to analyze the impact of lockdown on the water quality of river Damodar. A total of 55 samples was collected from eleven different confluence sites of nallas with the main river channel during and pre-lockdown period. The relevant methods like WQI, TSI, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and "t" test have been applied to evaluate the physical, chemical, and biological status of river water. The result of "t" test indicated that there are significant differences (α = 0.05) of each parameter between pre and during lockdown. Water quality index (WQI) is used for analysis of drinking water quality suitability followed by BIS. The values of WQI showed "very poor" (S1, S2, S3, S6, S7, and S11) to "unfit for drinking" (S4, S5, S8, S9, and S10) of river water during pre-monsoon season. The nutrient enrichment status of the river was analyzed by Trophic State Index (TSI) method and it shows the "High" eutrophic condition with a heavy concentration of algal blooms in almost an entire stretch. During lockdown, nutrient supplies like TN and TP have been reduced and is designated as "Low" (S1, S2) to "Moderate" (S3 to S11) eutrophic condition of middle stretch of Damodar. This research output of river Damodar will definitely assist to policy makers for sustainable environmental management despite the dilemma between development and conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fatal novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic disease smashes the normal tempo of global socio-economic and cultural livelihood. Most of the countries impose a lockdown system with social distancing measures to arrest the rapid transmission of this virus into the human body. The objective of this study is to examine the status of air quality during and pre-COVID-19 lockdown and to recommend some long-term sustainable environmental management plan. The pollution data like PM10, PM2.5, O3, SO2, NO2 and CO have been obtained from State Pollution Control Board under Govt. of West Bengal. Similarly, various land surface temperature (LST) maps have been prepared using LANDSAT-8 OLI and LANDSAT-7 ETM + images of USGS. The maps of NO2 and aerosol concentration over Indian subcontinent have been taken from ESA and NASA. The digital thematic maps and diagrams have been depicted by Grapher 13 and Arc GIS 10.3 platforms. The result shows that the pollutants like CO, NO2 and SO2 are significantly decreased, while the average level of O3 has been slightly increased in 2020 during the lockdown due to close-down of all industrial and transport activities. Meanwhile, around 17.5% was the mean reduction of PM10 and PM2.5 during lockdown compared with previous years owing to complete stop of vehicles movement, burning of biomass and dust particles from the construction works. This study recommends some air pollution-tolerant plant species (in urban vacant spaces and roof tops) for long-term cohabitation among environment, society and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluoride (F−) is the most electronegative and reactive micro nutrient and has no colour, taste and smell. WHO (1984) has set a range of 0.6–1.2 mg/l in drinking water. It is very essential element for strong teeth and bones in human being but beyond permissible limit, it is very harmful for human health. A field based scientific study was conducted in the year 2017 and 2018 in the district of Purulia, an extended part of Chhota Nagpur gneissic complex of North Singbhum craton. A total of 619 water samples were collected from various affected and non-affected villages and the important parameters like pH and Fe were tested within 24 hours in the laboratory. Around 1513 households with 4348 male and 3456 female from 320 villages spread over 20 blocks have been extensively surveyed, applying stratified random and quota sampling techniques. Furthermore, Likert method is applied to understand the scenario of vulnerability along with application of remote sensing and GIS techniques to prepare the digital maps. Besides, empirical equations are also computed to determine the magnitude of fluoride hazard, vulnerability and risk. The fluoride risk study (R=H+V) reveals that Puncha and Purulia II are the very high and high fluoride risk prone zone out of 20 blocks of Purulia district. Although the Singbhum craton is moderately fluoride hazard region but due to large degree of vulnerability in the recent years it has drastically changed into a high or very high fluoride risk category. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]