ABSTRACT
Abstract In the current study, attempts were made to analyze the effect of COVID-19 lockdown on the heavy metal concentrations in River Gomti through comparison with pre-COVID-19 lockdown status. The concentration of all the six heavy metals (As, Cd, Cr, Fe, Mn, and Pb) clearly shows a significant reduction, highlighting the impact of closure of agricultural, industrial, and commercial activities. The values of heavy metal pollution index (HPI) at all sites have also decreased with the maximum improvement at Site S1 (Chandrika Devi), signifying the impact of reduced agricultural runoff into the river from nearby fields. The correlation analysis stated a strong correlation between HPI and Cd, signifying the relatively high weightage of Cd in pollution levels. Findings from the Caboi diagram suggest classification of all water samples under the ?near neutral-low metal? category.