U.B. Vishnu, A. Aswini, T.M. Vishnu Maya, K Anoop Krishnan and A. Krishnakumar*

National Centre for Earth Science Studies (NCESS), Thiruvananthapuram-695011, Keralam, India

(*Corresponding Author, E-mail: drakrishnakumar@gmail.com)

Abstract

Understanding soil characteristics in river basins is crucial, as they directly influence agricultural productivity, ecological health, and the transport of contaminants within watersheds. This study investigates the Tamiraparani River Basin, where 39 soil samples were systematically collected across the region to evaluate physicochemical properties and selected metal concentrations, aiming to assess soil quality and contamination levels. Standard methods were employed to analyse parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity, and elemental concentrations. The degree of contamination ranged from 6.47 to 14.54, with four sites exhibiting low contamination and the remaining sites showing moderate levels. Pollution Load Index values varied between 0.73 and 1.26, with sixteen sites indicating progressive deterioration of soil quality, reflecting increasing anthropogenic pressures. The findings indicate generally low contamination levels, with only marginal enrichment at certain sites, suggesting that precautionary monitoring is needed. Given the critical role of soils in achieving several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including Zero Hunger, Climate Action, and Life on Land, the study underscores the importance of sustainable soil management in the context of global environmental changes, climate variability, and accelerating soil degradation. The results not only enhance understanding of regional soil health but also provide a foundation for future research, policy formulation, and sustainable land-use planning.

Keywords: Anthropogenic, Pollution Load Index, Soil Contamination Indices, XRF geochemistry