ORGANIC POLLUTION (pH and TOC) IN SEDIMENTS AT TIDAL BARRIERS IN THE SAIGON RIVER BASIN

Abstract

     The Saigon River plays a crucial role in the ecosystem and socio-economic development of Ho Chi Minh City but is affected by industrial activities, urbanization, and domestic wastewater, particularly in river branches with tidal sluices. This study assesses organic pollution in sediments through pH and total organic carbon (TOC) during the 2022-2024 period. Monitoring results from 2022 to 2024 indicated that pH values remained stable and within the permissible limits set by QCVN 07:2009/BTNMT. Meanwhile, TOC exhibited an increasing trend along the sampling locations, with significant fluctuations during the rainy season, particularly at certain sites with sudden high values, such as B3 (2.15%), B5 (2.36%), B6 (2.36%), and B7 (2.15%). In contrast, TOC levels during the dry season showed a more stable increase, with higher concentrations observed at locations B5 (2.14%), B7 (2.24%), B8 (2.24%), and B9 (1.92%). These seasonal variations reflect the influence of rainfall and surface runoff. The study provides a scientific basis for pollution management and proposes effective solutions for sediment environment protection. [1]; [2];[4];[5];[6];[7].