Investigations were carried out to evaluate the physico chemical parameters and heavy metal content in the Ganga river water at Varanasi. Six sampling station were selected along a seven km long stretch between Assi to Varuna. The sub surface water sample collected from the six sites from up stream and down stream was analyzed for physico chemical parameters and heavy metal analysis. The concentration of cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), Iron (Fe) and nickel (Ni) were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (Perkin-Elmer Analyst 200). The levels of the heavy metals were compared with WHO 1993 and previous research. The data revealed the increased trend of heavy metals in the river water from all the sampling sites at Varanasi in comparison to the previous studies. Highest concentration of Cd, Cu, Ni and Fe in the river water showed the trend: Fe>Ni>Cu>Cd. Concentration of all the heavy metals was high in down-stream sampling sites can be positively correlated with the physicochemical parameters. However, the concentration of these heavy metals in water remained below permissible limit but its increasing trend may lead to potential health risk in long run. So far the physico-chemical characteristics were concerned; the river water appeared to be fit for bathing purpose. However, pollutants in the form of heavy metals were found to be more than the previous studies.
