The Variations in Water Characteristics along the Komel River, Northeastern Iraq | ||
| Egyptian Journal of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries | ||
| Article 34, Volume 28, Issue 5, September and October 2024, Pages 637-651 PDF (1.15 M) | ||
| Document Type: Original Article | ||
| DOI: 10.21608/ejabf.2024.380397 | ||
| Author | ||
| Al-Youzbakey et al. | ||
| Abstract | ||
| The majority of spring water from the limestone layers near the surface is suitable for various domestic, agricultural, and industrial uses and typically requires minimal purification. The springs from the highland areas of Zawitah, Baidol, Belkev, Atrush, and Khans converge to form the Komel River, the largest tributary of the Al-Khazer River. The Komel River flows along the right side of Mount Bardrash. The rainfall and snow accumulation in the Komel River basin, particularly in the hilly areas, contribute to its spring water sources. The physical and chemical characteristics of the water were assessed using the water quality index (WQI), in accordance with the WHO standard values. Generally, the water is suitable for irrigation, as indicated by the sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) values, which suggest that the water is low in sodic content and classified as Class S1. Additionally, the sodium percentage (SSP) is less than 75%, the magnesium adsorption ratio (MAR) is below 50%, and the residual sodium carbonate (RSBC) values are less than 1.25. These indicators reflect low calcium and magnesium bicarbonate sedimentation from irrigation water and minimal sodium concentration increases, reducing the risk of soil damage. The permeability index (PI) classifies the water as suitable for irrigation (Class II), and the Kelly’s ratio (KR) values are below 1.0. The study concludes that the water quality of the Komel River is comparable to spring water, making it suitable for both domestic and agricultural use. This supports the establishment of water harvesting operations in the secondary valleys of the Komel River basin, particularly in the hilly regions. Additionally, irrigation projects can be developed in the downstream plain areas due to the favorable topographic slope. | ||
| Keywords | ||
| Water quality; Water characteristics; Komel River; WQI; Ninevah Governorate | ||
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