Application of QUAL2Kw for water quality modeling and dissolved oxygen control in the river Bagmati

Abstract

A stream water quality model, QUAL2Kw, was calibrated and validated for the river Bagmati of Nepal. The model represented the field data quite well with some exceptions. The influences of various water quality management strategies have on DO concentrations were examined considering: (i) pollution loads modification; (ii) flow augmentation; (iii) local oxygenation. The study showed the local oxygenation is effective in raising DO levels. The combination of wastewater modification, flow augmentation and local oxygenation is necessary to ensure minimum DO concentrations. This reasonable modeling guarantees the use of QUAL2Kw for future river water quality policy options.