Abstract

• This study highlights growing concerns about water pollution due to the development of the Thilawa Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and ongoing BOBLME activities, emphasizing the urgent need for action. Water samples were collected from 5 ft depth at 10 GPS-marked sites in June 2024. The analysis focuses on the physicochemical, elemental, and microbial properties of the water. The research aims to evaluate environmental impacts by analyzing various water quality parameters, such as pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, and biological and chemical oxygen demand, to determine the aquatic environment's health. Electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, alkalinity, hardness, chlorinity, and salinity were measured to understand ionic composition and salinity levels. Chlorophyll-a was analyzed to estimate the abundance of phytoplankton, and nutrient concentrations (nitrogen and phosphate) were evaluated for nutrient pollution. Total nitrogen (1.58 to 1.92 ppm) and orthophosphate (0.062 to 0.215 mg/L) contents indicated moderate nutrient levels of mesotrophic. Microbial analysis targeted coliforms and E. coli to assess contamination risks, while trace metals were examined to detect potential toxic elements. The results were compared to WHO, EPA, and ASEAN standards.