A Phytoremediation Approach Using Chrysopogon zizanioides and Eichhornia crassipes for Water Quality Restoration in Tiruchirappalli District, India

Abstract

Groundwater contamination has emerged as a critical environmental and public health concern in rapidly urbanizing regions of India. This study investigates the effectiveness of two plant based remediation systems, Chrysopogon zizanioides (Vetiver grass) and Eichhornia crassipes (Water hyacinth), for improving water quality in Tiruchirappalli district, Tamil Nadu. Groundwater samples collected from four locations were analyzed for physicochemical parameters, with Dalmiyapuram and Woraiyur exhibiting the highest contamination levels. Vetiver treatment demonstrated significant reductions in nitrate (97.5%), COD (87.7%), and BOD (54.9%), while Water hyacinth powder achieved exceptional TDS and EC removal (up to 86.2%). FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of carboxyl and carbonyl functional groups responsible for metal binding, while XRD revealed crystalline phases associated with metal containing species. AAS analysis confirmed chromium accumulation (approximately 103 ppm) in the biomass. The Exhausted Water hyacinth biomass with adsorbed heavy metals was safely disposed via controlled landfilling, preventing secondary contamination and completing the sustainable cycle. The study demonstrates that Vetiver excels at biological degradation of organic pollutants through rhizospheric microbial activity, while Water hyacinth functions as an effective physicochemical biosorbent. Both approaches offer cost effective, eco-friendly, and sustainable solutions for decentralized water purification, supporting government initiatives such as Namami Gange, Jal Jeevan Mission, and AMRUT.