Abstract
Water samples from nine sample stations in Asata River Enugu, were analysed to determine the effects of urban wastes on the quality of the river water. Stations A- F were located in more urbanized areas of the city, while G-I were in less urbanized areas. Results of laboratory analysis show higher values of parameters( pH, turbidity, colour, conductivity, suspended solids, total dissolved solids, dissolved oxygen and biochemical oxygen demand and faecal coliform) at stations A- F than at G-I. Results of physico-chemical parameters showed values within safe limits. However, all samples failed to meet bacteriological standards. A strong degree of association was found to exist between sampling station distance from waste dump and dissolved oxygen (r = 0.88) and with total suspended solids (r= - 0.73). The study indicates that the river water quality was much lower in higher density, more urbanized areas of Enugu urban where waste generation and management is a growing problem. The study identifies the need for the development of a sustainable municipal waste management strategy that will encourage source reduction, reuse and recycling of solid wastes. The strategy will lead to the enhancement of the ecological integrity of Asata River and its tributaries.
Highlights
Rivers have always provided a focus of attention for environmental studies (Petts, 1983; 1984)
In the less urbanized areas, Total suspended solids (TSS) concentrations ranged from 21mg/l to 77mg/l while at stations G, H and I it ranged from 10mg/l-19mg/l
Bacteriological quality was above permissible limits at all sampling stations, the highest being station C, a poorly planned high density area
Summary
Rivers have always provided a focus of attention for environmental studies (Petts, 1983; 1984). They offer a number of benefits and services to man and the environment, but as public goods are increasingly being polluted and threatened on a global scale by anthropogenic activities. According to Akaninwor et al, (2007), pollution of fresh water bodies such as rivers, streams, lakes and ponds is mostly experienced as a result of industrial discharge, municipal waste disposal and surface runoff. Like most other urban centres of the developing world is experiencing rapid and uncontrolled growth typified by poor planning, rapid population growth, inadequate amenities and poor sanitation (Hardoy and Satterhwaite, 1989). Asata River in Enugu urban serves as a receptacle for some of these wastes
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