The Sefidroud River is the most important river in Iran. Titanium-bearing sediments with varying concentrations are observed in different sections of river. To investigate the relationship between elemental concentrations in Sefidroud sediments and titanium-bearing deposits, 28 sediment samples were collected and subjected to environmental monitoring. Based on the results, the dominant sediment texture is gravel–sand. The elements Cu, Sr, Ti, Mo, K, and Al show positive correlations with gravel; Mg and S with sand; P, K, As, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, V, Zn, Pb, Ti, Mg, S, and Fe with mud. An increasing concentration of heavy titanium-bearing minerals is observed from upstream toward the river mouth, with a noticeable increase after the confluence of the Siakolroud, Siahroud, and Kharshak tributaries. In the Sefidroud sediments, significant correlations were identified between Mg, Fe, Ti, Zn, V, Co, Mn, Ni, and Cu and the concentration of black titanium-bearing sediments. The spatial distribution of these elements indicates a predominantly geogenic origin. In contrast, P and As are of anthropogenic origin, and their concentrations increase from upstream to the river mouth in association with human activities. Based on elemental distribution diagrams of sediments, nearly all elements, except Fe, exhibit concentrations lower than those of average shale and above toxicity thresholds. According to the mean values of the Igeo, EF, and CF indices, the sediments of the Sefidroud River are generally considered unpolluted with respect to almost all elements. An analysis based on the average Igeo, EF, CF, mCd, PLI, ER, RI, Cd and NIPI indices revealed a lack of pollution for nearly all elements. Ecological risk assessment revealed that certain sediments are experiencing a state of pollution. This pollution level continue to rise, it poses a potential threat to aquatic communities. Consequently, It’s deemed necessary to implement effective measures aimed at mitigating these pollutants.