Determination of the water quality index (ICA-PE) of Lake Chinchaycocha, Junin, Peru

Abstract

The objective of the research was to determine the water quality index of Lake Chinchaycocha, which has faced pollution problems for several years. To do this, we worked with data from ten water quality monitoring points, collected by the National Water Authority (ANA) during the period 2019-2023, after which the water quality index (ICA-PE) was calculated analyzing a total of 12 parameters, using the Water Quality Standard (ECA) for water category 4 E1 (lagoons and lakes). The results of the physicochemical parameters indicated that the total nitrogen values ​​exceed the limits established in the ECA in 82% of the data obtained, pH in 13%, and phosphorus in 1%. In the evaluation of inorganic parameters, data from the LChin1S monitoring point showed that lead and zinc levels exceed the values ​​established in the ECA by 8% and 3%, respectively. Regarding the ICA-PE of the dry and wet seasons, it was determined that both have good quality according to their averages and with the results obtained from the ICA-PE in general, it is concluded that Lake Chinchaycocha has good water quality. having total nitrogen as the main contaminant.