Spatial and Temporal Assessment of Physicochemical Water Quality Parameters in Selected Rivers of Georgia

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive assessment of the water quality of several rivers in Western Georgia, namely the Pichori, Enguri, Mtkvari, and Tskhenistskali Rivers, based on organoleptic, physicochemical, elemental, biogenic, and sanitary-bacteriological parameters. The results revealed significant differences among the studied rivers in terms of mineralization, oxidizability, elemental composition, and microbiological status. The Enguri River exhibited relatively high concentrations of organic matter and biogenic nutrients, as well as the presence of total coliform bacteria and Escherichia coli. The Pichori River was characterized by elevated aluminum concentrations and microbiological contamination. In contrast, the Mtkvari and Tskhenistskali Rivers demonstrated comparatively favorable ecological conditions, reflected by lower pollution levels and bacteriological safety. Most heavy metals were either not detected in the analyzed samples or were present within environmentally acceptable limits. The obtained results indicate distinct spatial variations in river water quality across Western Georgia and emphasize the importance of regular monitoring for sustainable water resource management and ecosystem protection.