Determination of the Level of Contamination of Underground Water (hand- dug well) by Organic Waste: A case Study of Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria.

Abstract

The recent increase in urbanization has lead to increase in city population, spatial size, and generation of waste. This is a common phenomenon in Nigeria Cities, where Ado-Ekiti is a typical example. With the ever increasing population coupled with increasing waste (contaminant) generation and high demand for potable water, there have been reported cases of water associated health problems in the state specialist hospital. The aim of this study is to determine the level of contamination of hand-dug well which is one of the major source of water supply for the population. Water samples were taken from a total of fifteen wells at the vicinity of three major refuse dumpsite taking measurement of depth of the well, diameter, volume of water, distance to toilet and dumpsite and the physical condition of the wells. The determination of bacteria level was done using, Experimental scientific set standard. The total coliform bacteria count shows that the water is exposed to serious and complex contaminations, which indicates source pollutant of sewage and faecal materials from man and animal. With the findings, location, design and construction of wells should not be determined by only hydro geological facts, but a set standard that will put distance from toilet/dumpsite into consideration should be strictly followed. Also health workers should carry out regular monitoring of the well for contaminations. Ethiopian Journal of Education and Sciences Vol. 3 (1) 2007: pp. 43-50