Trophic classification and assessment of lake health using indexing approach and geostatistical methods for sustainable management of water resources

Abstract This study aims to analyse the spatio-temporal trends in water quality, trophic state, and organic contamination of an alpine lake Darjeeling Himalaya through field investigations portray a comprehensive picture using multivariate analysis. Analysed parameters have shown notable seasonal variations were within acceptable range for inland surface water. Water quality index (WQI) pollution (OPI) values displayed ‘poor’ ‘heavily polluted’ status pre-monsoon season, with marginally better conditions during post-monsoon studies. Trophic state indices (TSIs) revealed ‘eutrophic highly eutrophic’ investigation period. The results PCA depicted three major determining factors (i.e., anthropogenic contribution, geogenic or weathering, seasonal/climatic factors) that control overall level system. current can potentially be benchmark assessing undertaking management restoration measures this nascent ecosystem.