Foreword

Oxides of sulphur and nitrogen are emitted into the atmosphere through combustion of fossil fuels and industrial processes which are converted into strong acids (sulphuric and nitric) and result acidity in the precipitation. The pH value lower than 5.0 (sometimes 5.6) is known as Acid rain. The storm water after rain run through soil surface and carries organic deposition and other pollutants to the nearest water body.

The acid rain as well as surface runoff has great impact on aquatic ecosystem. It reduces fish population in the water bodies. Terrestrial ecosystem is also affected due to loss of forest production.

The study on the quality of rainwater and surface runoff in the western region of the country was carried out for generating information on non-point sources of pollution. Rain water samples and surface runoff water samples were collected to assess their quality, which contaminate either ground water, or nearest receiving water bodies.