Water quality in Changsha's Xiang River seriously polluted, government urged to act.
The water quality in Changsha part of Xiang River was studied from 2000 to 2005 to understand pollution levels. Water samples were collected in different seasons and locations to evaluate pollution levels. The main pollutants found were coliform, mercury, volatile phenol, cadmium, and ammonia nitrogen. Pollution levels were higher in the dry season compared to the wet season. Mercury pollution was more severe in the wet season. Upstream areas showed higher pollution levels than downstream areas. Overall, the water in Changsha part of Xiang River is seriously polluted, with many indicators exceeding water quality standards.