Petroleum hydrocarbons and trace metals in Visakhapatnam harbour and Kakinada Bay, east coast of India

Abstract

High concentrations of PHC were observed in the inner channels (viz., South lighter canal, Northern arm, North western arm and Western arm) of Visakhapatnam harbour. The estimation of trace metals (Cu, Zn, Pb, Cd, Co, Ni and Cr) in surficial sediments indicated higher contamination in Visakhapatnam harbour than in Kakinada Bay. Positive correlations between Cu, Zn, Pb and Cd suggests common sources of these metals. Lack of correlation between Co, Ni with the other metals indicates point sources. High concentrations of chromium reflects intense discharges due to electroplating and battery operations.