Physico-chemical assessment of surface water from mining activities in Maiganga coal mine, Gombe state, Nigeria

Abstract

Purpose. Surface water from mining activities may undergo various physico-chemical changes that can impact its quality and ecological health. This study conducted a comprehensive physico-chemical assessment of surface water affected by mining operations, with a particular emphasis on heavy metal content. Methods. These parameters were chosen due to their importance as indicators of water quality and potential contamination. Water samples were collected from different locations within and around Maiganga Coal mine area and analyzed using standard laboratory techniques. The assessment included the measurement of physico-chemical parameters such as temperature, total dissolved solids and concentrations of heavy metals such as chromium, lead, manganese, cadmium and copper. Also, cations and anions such as calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, nitrate, chloride sulfate and fluoride that can impact water quality were considered. Findings. The results of the physico-chemical assessment revealed substantial variations of chromium (0.00-0.03 mg/l), lead (0.00-0.05 mg/l), manganese (0.00-12.11 mg/l), cadmium (0.10-0.14 mg/l) and copper (0.00-1.02 mg/l) concentrations. Also, cations and anions such as calcium (0.00-1.13 mg/l), magnesium (11.90-30.07 mg/l), sodium (0.20-1.11 mg/l), potassium (0.10-0.66 mg/l), nitrate (3.90-4.78 mg/l), chloride (84.0-319.0 mg/l), sulphate (8.0-240.0 mg/l) and fluoride (0.00-0.89 mg/l) can impact water quality levels across the sampled surface water bodies. Originality. Evidence of acid mine drainage, caused by mine effluents that are limited to surface water and do not reach groundwater, has been found through analysis of data from wells, ponds, and streams. Practical implications. These variations obtained could be attributed to the discharge of acidic or alkaline substances associated with coal mining activities.