Evaluation of the Water Quality of River Kaduna, Nigeria Using Water Quality Index

Abstract

Water is a natural resource of fundamental importance and supports all life forms. The study evaluated the water quality of River Kaduna using the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) Water Quality Index. The study covered both raining and dry seasons in 10 sampling points. Water parameters analysed were turbidity, Zn, Pb, Cd, Cr, Cu, Mn, Fe, dissolved oxygen, electrical conductivity, pH, TDS and Ni using standard laboratory techniques. The data obtained were used to develop Water Quality Index (WQI) across the 10 sampling points and results showed that the water quality at Barnawa, Kudenda, Tudun Wada, Makera and Angwan Muazu are poor as their index values ranged between 31.8 – 42 while Kawo, Angwan Dosa, Malali, Kigo and Angwan Rimi are marginal as their index ranged between 45 – 61.3. The study concluded that the variety and level of contaminants in River Kaduna was related to the anthropogenic activities in the various parts of Kaduna Metropolis from where run-off and contaminants were received, hence, the water quality of River Kaduna is deteriorating. There is therefore the need for proper environmental education and discouragement in the use of toxic chemicals for farming so that pollution can be controlled at the source.