Borehole Water Research Articles

Identification of hydrogeological and geoelectrical parameters influencing the productivity of boreholes in the commune of Daloa (Central-Western of Côte d'Ivoire)

This study was to determine the hydrogeological and geoelectrical parameters affecting the productivity of water boreholes in the Daloa commune. Using the Schlumberger configuration, we carried out 15 parallel and perpendicular electrical profiling and 40 Vertical Electrical Soundings (VES). We also performed Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) with a pole-dipole configuration at one site. The data processing allowed the identification of the different layers of the subsurface and their geoelectric properties that influence the productivity of the boreholes in the study area. These geoelectric data have shown that the productivity of the boreholes is more related to the conductive anomalies (W and U) than to the vertical electrical sounding. The processing of the hydrogeological data has shown that borehole productivity in the study area using Self-Organising Map (SOM) is a function of the hydraulic conductivity but also the thickness and density of the fracturing. Sixteen new boreholes on the main campus of Jean Lorougnon Guede University, Daloa, validate these results. The yield of these productive boreholes varies between 7.5 and 22 m3/h, with an average of 15.2 m3/h, four times higher than the values usually obtained in the study area. The success rate of these boreholes is about 70 %. This study has shown how effectively integrating hydrogeological and geoelectrical parameters provides information on the lithology and structural conditions in the subsurface necessary for productive drilling.

Preliminary assessment of <i>Moringa oleifera</i> seed as a flocculation agent for purification of drinking water

Sachet and borehole water are the major sources of drinking water for many in Nigeria. However, there are still concerns about drinking water purity in Nigeria. This study was conducted to determine the parasites associated with sachet and borehole drinking water and to determine the efficacy of Moringa oleifera seed in the flocculation treatment of sachet and borehole water. A total of 75 sachet water from 15 brands, and 10 different borehole water samples were collected from the study area. Moringa seed was processed and maceration was done to extract the active ingredients. Of the 75 sachet water samples from 15 brands examined, none had any parasites. However, all the brands contained varying degrees of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS). Brand N had the highest (147.1mg/L), while Brand G had the least (4.62mg/L). After treatment, the TDS values of all the water samples were reduced by more than 50% in each of the brands. There was no significant association in the particle load among the sachet water brands (P>0.05, P=0.141). All 10 borehole water samples examined also contained varying degrees of TDS. The highest level of TDS in the study (635.4mg/L) and Ova of Ascaris lumbricoides was observed in sample E. After treatment, the TDS values of all the water samples were reduced. Also, ova of A. lumbricoides was no longer observed in the sample E. In this study, M. oleifera seed has demonstrated a high level of efficacy as a flocculation agent for the purification of drinking water. Therefore, we recommend further studies to determine how the seed could be used safely as a household and industrial water flocculant.

Assessing the quality of drinking water from selected water sources in Mbarara city, South-western Uganda.

This study assessed the physical, chemical, and microbiological quality with emphasis on risk score, source apportionment, geochemistry, feacal coliforms and water quality index of drinking water from selected water sources. A cross-sectional study was conducted in six villages in Mbarara city, south-western Uganda. Each selected source was inspected using a WHO-adopted sanitary inspection questionnaire. Each source's risk score was calculated. Thirty-seven samples were taken from one borehole, nine open dug wells, four rain harvest tanks, and twenty-three taps. The values for apparent color and phosphate were higher than the permissible level as set by the World Health Organization and Ugandan standards (US EAS 12). The isolated organisms were Klebsiella spp. (8.11%), Citrobacter divergens (62.16%), Citrobacter fluendii (2.7%), E. coli (35.14%), Enterobacter aerogenes (8.11%), Enterobacter agglomerus (5.4%), Proteus spp. (2.7%), Enterobacter cloacae (13.5%), and Proteus mirabilis (2.7%). Twelve water sources (32.4%) had water that was unfit for human consumption that was unfit for human consumption (Grade E), Five sources (13.5%) had water that had a very poor index (Grade D), nine (24.3%) had water of poor index (Grade C), eight (21.6%) had water of good water index (Grade B), and only three (8.1%) had water of excellent water quality index (Grade A). The piper trilinear revealed that the dominant water type of the area were Mgso4 and Caso4 type. Gibbs plot represents precipitation dominance. PCA for source apportionment showed that well, tap and borehole water account for the highest variations in the quality of drinking water. These results suggest that drinking water from sources in Mbarara city is not suitable for direct human consumption without treatment. We recommend necessary improvements in water treatment, distribution, and maintenance of all the available water sources in Mbarara City, South Western Uganda.

Fluoride and Chloride Ions Concentration and their Health Implications in Groundwater within Bwari Area Council, Abuja, Nigeria

According to the World Health Organization, fluoride in drinking water, either below or above the established permissible range, can adversely affect oral health, including tooth decay and dental fluorosis. The objective of this study was to evaluate fluoride and chloride ion concentration and their health implications in groundwater within Bwari Area Council, Abuja, Nigeria using ion-selective electrode potentiometric titration for fluoride ion and Argentometric titration for chloride ion determinations. The results showed a high fluoride concentration in well water samples ranging from 0.126 mg/L to 0.216 mg/L, compared to borehole water samples ranging from 0.013 mg/mL to 0.052 mg/L. Among the chloride concentrations, the highest levels were observed in the well water sample A (96.09 mg/L), followed by borehole samples, A (63.08 mg/L) and B (49.35 mg/L). The lowest chloride concentration was recorded in the borehole sample H (11.82 mg/L). Notably, both well and borehole water sources in the studied communities had fluoride concentrations below the established minimum WHO standard (0.5 mg/L). The chloride concentrations in the groundwater samples from the study area fell within WHO standards (< 250 mg/L). The results from this study suggest that the continuous consumption of water from these community sources, without additional sources of fluoride, may increase the risk of tooth decay. Therefore, addressing this issue and ensuring appropriate water treatment measures is vital for maintaining optimal oral health in the region.

Hydrogeochemical and microbial constituents of groundwater in Lephalale municipality, Limpopo province, South Africa

This study assessed the hydrogeochemical characteristics and microbial constituents of groundwater in Lephalale Municipality, South Africa. A total of 71 borehole water samples were collected from 15 villages within the Lephalale Municipality between April 2019 and October 2020. The results of the parameters such pH, EC, TDS, and alkalinity range from 6.69 to 7.87, 620.30 to 1937.00 μS/cm, 330.35 to1035.50 mg/L and 50.00-390.00 mg/L, respectively. The mean values of major cations and anions were found to be in the order of Na+>Ca2+>Mg2+>K+ and HCO3−>Cl−>NO3−>SO42−>F−, respectively. About 35 % of the tested samples had F− concentrations above 1.5 mg/L recommended by the world health organization (WHO) to eliminate the risk of fluorosis. The hydrogeochemical facies determined using a piper diagram revealed the dominance of mixed CaMgCl and CaHCO3 water types. The Gibbs plot analysis revealed that the main composition-controlling hydrogeochemical processes in the study area is the rock-water interaction. The microbial constituent's analysis showed that faecal coliform in groundwater samples were ranging between 0 and 71 CFU/ 100 mL with an average of 0.56 CFU/100 mL, while total coliform (TC) counts were between 0 and 360.5 CFU/100mL with the average of 30.81 CFU/100mL, respectively. This study revealed that groundwater in some boreholes from Lephalale Municipality poses risk of fluorosis and pathogen related diseases. Therefore, the study recommends improving of water quality within the study area prior to consumption.

Physicochemical properties and health risk assessment of selected heavy metals from soil and borehole water in Ifite-Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria

Urbanization and industrialization's influence on heavy metal contamination in soil and surface/groundwater resources warrant ongoing attention to protect public health and the environment, especially in Nigeria. Soil samples from different depths (0–10 cm, 15–25 cm, 25–40 cm) and borehole water samples were studied for physicochemical properties and heavy metal content. The result showed that borehole water pH ranged from 5.6 to 6.8, while soil pH ranged from 5.0 to 7.5 which is below WHO limits of 6.5–8.5. Other soil properties such as soil organic matter, cationic exchange capacity, and heavy metals (zinc (Zn), arsenic (As), lead (Pb) and chromium (Cr) were assessed for fertility and pollution indicators. The concentrations of Zn, Pb and Cr were within WHO standards, but As in Sample C exceeded the limits. Heavy metals concentration order in soil was Zn > Cr > As > Pb. Pearson correlations (r) showed positive and negative relationship between variances in soil and water samples ranging − 0.17–0.99 with diverse chemical interactions across all variables analysed. Risk assessment showed average daily intake dominated through ingestion, with low risks through dermal contact. Hazard quotient and index values for all metals were below one (1), indicating minimal non-carcinogenic risks for adults and children via different pathways (inhalation, ingestion, and dermal pathways). However, cancer risk slightly exceeded USEPA levels, especially for children due to prolonged soil exposure. The analysis further revealed that children are more at risk compared to adults from soil exposure (ingestion and dermal) over a long period. The study highlights the importance of continuous monitoring and environmental regulations to ensure sustainability.

Investigation of fluoride concentrations, water quality, and non-carcinogenic health risks of borehole water in bongo district, northern Ghana

Access to potable water is a significant concern due to the increasing global threat posed by fluoride contamination in groundwater sources. This study investigated the concentrations of fluoride (F−), the suitability of groundwater for human consumption, the physicochemical characteristics affecting the water quality, and non-carcinogenic adverse health risks to both children and adults in the Bongo district in Northern Ghana. The findings revealed that the groundwater had a mean pH, salinity, TDS, conductivity, and turbidity below the WHO guideline values with a mean fluoride concentration of 1.76 mg/L above the guideline limit of 1.5 mg/L. The study also found that there was no strong relationship between fluoride and the measured water parameters, which may be attributed to poor control of distribution, transport mechanisms, and sources. The WQI scores ranged from 42.62% to 70.72%, indicating that all borehole water samples were of good and excellent quality. The average chronic daily intake showed that children are often more exposed to the harmful impact of fluoride than adults. The average HQ > 1 indicates the probability of dental and skeletal fluorosis after continuous exposure over time in adults and children. The study recommends taking immediate action to mitigate high groundwater fluoride concentrations, implementing appropriate water management strategies, and raising public awareness of the health risks. These measures can guide future groundwater management practices and help policymakers address contamination and protect local communities.

Groundwater potential zones identification using geoelectrical resistivity sounding and GIS in upper Metro sub-catchment, Malang, Indonesia

Recently, Upper Metro Sub-Catchment and its surroundings have witnessed intensive land investments. The lack of surface water and the human activities of this region increase the demand for groundwater. Several water boreholes were installed to meet the large water needs; however, these boreholes no longer cover the high demand for water due to the increase in population, increase in irrigated areas, and wear and tear on pumps. Therefore, in order to better define the catchment area and find new sites that meet the water quality and quantity requirements, a geoelectrical survey using the electrical resistivity method was carried out in the upper Metro sub-catchment potentials. Using the Schlumberger array, a total of 19 vertical electrical soundings were conducted along 2 profiles. The recorded data were interpreted quantitatively and qualitatively through the use of apparent resistivity maps, geoelectrical pseudo-section analysis, and the established geoelectric sections. In this study, we identified sandstone tuff as an aquifer layer at a depth of 20 – 100 meters. So it can be known that there are 3 zones of groundwater potential consisting of poor, medium, and high.

Accessibilité et qualité de l’eau dans la commune de Mboro (Sénégal) : étude exploratoire

In a context of demographic growth in coastal areas, access to drinking water remains a major challenge. The aim of this work is to contribute to the study of the population's perception of the accessibility and quality of water, as well as the hydro-chemical characterisation of water samples from the commune of Mboro. A questionnaire was administered to a sample of 150 households out of 3,455 for the perception survey. Two borehole water samples (MBORO F1 and MBORO F2), one from a traditional well (PUITS TRAD) and one from a pond (THI) were analysed using volumetric, electrothermal and spectrophotometric methods. The results show that the pH values of the water samples comply with WHO standards, and that the conductivity values and chloride, sodium, sulphate, magnesium, calcium, bicarbonate and potassium levels are below the regulatory thresholds. However, the PUITS TRAD (185.7 mg/l) and THI (117.5 mg/l) samples had nitrate concentrations above the guide value (50 mg/l). The iron content of the PUITS TRAD and THI samples is equal to the guide value (0.2 mg/l). The survey on the supply of drinking water revealed that 67% of households have domestic taps, 4% use standpipes, 16% draw water from their neighbours and 13% of the population use water from wells. 77% of the population say they have easy access to a water source. However, 47% of households are not satisfied with the management and operation of the commune's water facilities. This work shows that the commune of Mboro is facing difficulties in supplying quality water. Concerted, sustainable action is therefore needed to improve the situation for the local population.

SUITABILITY OF GROUNDWATER QUALITY FOR DRINKING USING WATER QUALITY INDEX IN KANO METROPOLIS, NIGERIA

Groundwater is an important source of drinking water in Kano Metropolis, Nigeria. This study aims to assess the suitability of groundwater for drinking using the water quality index (WQI). 960 water samples were collected from 160 sites in the Kano Metropolis and analyzed 9 physicochemical parameters, 9 heavy metals and two groups of microbial parameters using American Public Health Association standard procedures in a laboratory. The values obtained for the various parameters were then compared to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) and Nigerian Standards for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ). The overall WQI for each LGA was calculated using Weighted Arithmetic Index guidelines. The results showed that overall WQI is generally unsuitable for drinking with ranged values of borehole water from 47.07 - 149.51 in Dala and Nasarawa respectively while the well water ranged from 94.17 - 251.44 at Tarauni and Kumbotso and spatially represented in map of Kano metropolis. Marginally suitable for drinking were recorded at Dala and some individual wells in well-planned and clean areas (Bompai Quarters, GRAs). The T-Test statistical analysis between borehole and well in Dala, KMC and Nasarawa LGAs showed significant variations at P = < .05 while Fagge, Gwale, Kumbotso, Tarauni and Ungogo LGAs showed no significant differences. The study recommends the need for improved water management strategies, such as desalination and water treatment, to increase access to safe drinking water.

Assessment of water quality from selected borehole locations in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, Southwest Nigeria.

Borehole water is commonly believed to be pure and safe to drink. The present study assessed the quality of ten selected borehole locations within Ado -Ekiti. This was carried out by assessing the physicochemical parameters, microbial and heavy metal contamination using standard procedures. The physicochemical parameter results showed that Temperature range between 25.99 oC - 26.60 oC, Electrical conductivity range between 41.62 µs/cm - 202.54 µs/cm, pH range between 6.81-7.57, Total dissolved solids range between 28.15 mg/L - 116.22 mg/L, Total suspended solids range between 0.09 mgl -1.27 mgl, Turbidity range between 0.12 NTU-0.71 NTU, Total Hardness range between 29.64 mg/l -80.61 mg/l, Total Alkalinity range between 20.97 mg/l - 65.42 mg/l and all values were within World Health Organisation (WHO) permissible limits. The bacteria count of borehole water sample range from 10.66 ± 0.03 Cfu/ml to 12.56 ± 0.03 Cfu/ml. Highest fungi count of the borehole water sample was in the value range from 8.27 ± 0.00 Sfu/ml to 9.63 ± 0.02 Sfu/ml. The highest coliform detected in the borehole sample range from 5.33 ± 0.58 Cfu/ml to 8.67 ± 8.56 Cfu/ml. The bacteria, fungi and coliform count result observed in this study was higher than the WHO recommended limits. The metals occurred in the samples in this order Cr >Fe > Pb > As > Cd. The heavy metals were present in quantities higher than WHO recommended limit in some of the samples which is an indication of potential health hazards through the water consumption.

Pengaruh Perubahan Kadar pH Air Dengan Optimalisai Ukuran dan Suhu Aktivasi Serbuk Cangkang Siput Hisap (Cerithidea Obtusa) Sebaga Media Adsorben

The demand for clean water continues to increase along with population growth. Therefore, it is important to improve water quality to meet the demand for clean water supply. There are three methods that can be used in the water purification process, namely filtration, sedimentation, and adsorption. Clam shell waste contains calcium carbonate (CaCO3) with a percentage of 98%. This content can be used as an adsorption media. The purpose of this research is to utilize gold snail shell waste for activation at mesh size and temperature by determining the most optimum value. The results of making adsorbents will be tested on borehole water at the Bangka Belitung State Manufacturing Polytechnic to study changes in the degree of acidity of water pH. The research was conducted using the Taguchi method, where the process parameters were mesh size and activation temperature. The parameters were then adjusted with the OA L_9 algorithm for three repetitions. Based on the results of the research and test data processing that has been done, it is concluded that the activation temperature is the highest influence in the process of making adsorbents. Optimal results were obtained at a powder size of 150 mesh (109 μm) and at an activation temperature of 700o C. With a percent contribution value on mesh size of 3.42% and activation temperature of 94.32%. It can be concluded that activation temperature is the highest influence in the process of making adsorbents.

Factors associated with acute watery diarrhea among children aged 0–59 months in Obongi District, Uganda, April 2022: A case–control study

BackgroundDiarrheal diseases, are major concerns for Ugandan children; persistent in Obongi District despite high rotavirus vaccination rates (2019–2021). The district recorded the country's highest annual acute watery diarrhea (AWD) incidence from 2017 to 2021. Our study, conducted in April 2022, assessed AWD risk factors among 0–59-month-old children in Obongi. MethodsWe conducted a 1:2 (193:386) unmatched case–control study. A case was a child (0–59 months) with ≥ 3 loose/liquid stools/day, negative malaria/pneumonia tests, residing in Itula/Parolinya subcounty from 1 to 30 April 2022. Medical records from 10 facilities were reviewed. Simple random sampling identified cases, who were interviewed, and controls were randomly chosen from non-AWD neighboring households. Child health cards provided vaccination details. We used logistic regression to identify factors associated with AWD. ResultsAmong 193 cases and 386 controls, 104 (54 %) cases and 183 (47 %) controls were male, 58 (30 %) cases and 127 (33 %) controls were aged 12–23 months, 187 (97 %) cases and 369 (96 %) controls had received at least one dose of rotavirus vaccine, 58 (30 %) cases and 120 (34 %) controls treated drinking water. Comorbidity presence (undernutrition, diabetes, HIV) (AOR = 12; CI: 2.5–53), caregiver's unwashed hands post-toilet (AOR = 3.9; CI: 1.2–13), and borehole vs. piped water (AOR = 4.0; CI: 1.7–9.6) linked to AWD. ConclusionModifiable factors, including failure of caregivers to wash their hands with soap after visiting toilets and use of borehole water were associated with AWD, suggesting that community sensitization on handwashing at critical times, using clean water and soap, and expanded use of piped water could reduce AWD incidence in this area.

Incipient Salinization: A Case Study of the Spring of Asclepieion in Lentas (Ancient Lebena), Crete

Sanctuaries devoted to Asclepius were established and operated for almost a thousand years in various Greek and Roman cities throughout the Mediterranean region. The Asclepieion sanctuary in Lentas (formerly known as Ancient Lebena) in Crete was famous for receiving water from a sacred spring. In Ancient Lebena, Levinaion was a famous centre for hydrotherapy, physiotherapy, and a psychiatric hospital. In the present paper, we aim to assess the hydrochemical status of this sacred spring that holds a prominent position in archaeological and historical studies. The main objectives of this study are: Initially, to present supervisory evidence (archaeological, geological, hydrochemical) of an area that was a water resource management model for many centuries, carrying out therapeutic work. The second objective is to present and compare hydrochemical data in the last century, i.e., from 1915 to 2021. The third objective is to highlight and warn of an incipient saltwater intrusion in the area along the Lentas coast. The fourth objective is to propose an alternative and sustainable form of water resources management in the region that requires the study and rational utilization of the sporadic small water springs in the region. Our study focuses on a basic hydrochemical analysis of spring and borehole water in the remains of Levinaion in the Lentas region, and their comparison with sparse historical data of the sacred spring water, aiming to interpret the impact of the changes in the spring water resources that occurred in recent decades due to urban modernization. Our results highlight (i) visible fluctuations in chemical composition of borehole water samples; (ii) a neutral to alkaline pH in borehole waters and an alkaline pH in spring waters; (iii) undetectable arsenic in Lentas borehole water, unlike historical data of Lentas spring water; (iv) low values of dissolved radon in Lentas borehole water and the spring water of Kefalovrysa; and (v) a timeless constant and hypothermic nature of the water of both the sacred spring and borehole of Lentas, and also of the Kefalovrysa spring. The recorded historical data, i.e., from 1915 to 1957, due to the absence of substantial anthropogenic activity in the area, can be used as reference values (natural background levels, NBLs) for the Lentas area. Our findings emerge with the need to bring again the flowing spring water of the sacred spring of Lentas in its original form through sustainable management and re-discover its beneficial therapeutical effects.

Health Risk Assessment of Heavy metals, Physicochemical properties and Microbes in Groundwater near Igando Dumpsite in Lagos, Nigeria

The most common and cost-effective waste disposal method is the dumpsite; however, leachate from dumpsites may percolate and compromise groundwater sources. This study evaluated the levels of heavy metals (lead, cadmium, chromium, copper, and arsenic), physicochemical parameters (pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, hardness, calcium, magnesium, and chloride), and microorganisms in borehole water samples obtained at distances of 50, 100, 200, and 400 meters from the Igando dumpsite in Lagos, Nigeria. The health hazards associated with the heavy metals were also calculated. Physicochemical analysis indicated that the water samples were acidic, with pH values ranging from 4.30±0.01 to 5.21±0.008. They contained levels of calcium (166.73±0.01 - 328.66±0.06 mg/l), magnesium (83.72±0.02 - 119.40±0.17 mg/l), hardness (416.01±0.11 mg/l - 820.00±1.63 mg/l), and chloride (20.07±0.02 - 120.90±0.81 mg/l) that exceeded the limits set by the World Health Organization. Heavy metal analysis showed that, in all locations, lead exceeded the permissible limits, cadmium exceeded the limits except for the 400-m location, and copper, chromium, and arsenic (except for the 50-m location) were within permissible limits. The average daily intake and hazard quotient of the heavy metals were both within recommended limits, but the carcinogenic risks of lead, cadmium, and copper in water collected at a distance of ≤100m exceeded the threshold. Microbiological examinations revealed non-permissible levels of bacteria at all locations, coliforms at the 400-m location, and fungi at the 50-m and 400-m locations. On average, the parameters significantly (p<0.05) increased in concentrations as the proximity to the dumpsite decreased. These findings indicate that borehole water is not suitable for drinking without treatment.

The radioactive contamination of ground and surface water near a uranium mine in Malawi

Ground and surface water in the uranium mining area of Kayelekera in Malawi was assessed for concentration levels of radioactive metals. Potential health risks associated with the intake of these metals in drinking water from various sources were also estimated. Surface, groundwater and mine discharge water samples were collected and analysed for radio elemental concentration using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry analytical technique. The results indicated a high concentration of 238U in water samples from lower Sere river. The activity concentrations of 238U, 232Th and 40K were however below WHO recommended limit. Health risk assessment using average committed effective dose were below the global average. Excess lifetime cancer risk values with an average of for borehole water was calculated and found to be below the global average. Radiologically, the water quality of Kayelekera area post uranium mining activities has not been compromised, however close monitoring and treating of drinking water is recommended

Microbial evaluation of borehole water used by selected bakeries in Ijebu-North, Ogun State, Nigeria

Water is one of the most important components of dough systems used to produce bread and other bakery products. Water could serve as a direct or indirect source of microbial contamination during baking, handling, or packaging, thereby affecting the quality and safety of bakery products. This study investigated the presence of faecal coliforms in water sources of selected bakeries in Ijebu North Local Government Area. Water samples were collected from the main sources of three bakeries located in the Ijebu North Area. Physical and microbiological parameters were then investigated and compared to the WHO guidelines. The average temperature and pH ranged between 24.30 and 25.27oC and between 6.40 and 6.73, respectively. The average total bacterial and coliform counts of the water samples collected from the three bakeries were in the ranges of 1.80-3.60 x 104 CFU ml−1 and 1.60-2.70 x 104 CFU ml–1, respectively (p < 0.0001). Twenty-nine isolates comprising four species (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Salmonella spp.) were observed in this study. The study showed that all water samples under analysis were tainted with faecal coliform, which makes the water unsafe for use in bakeries.

DISSEMINATION OF DIARRHEAGENIC BACTERIA IN COMMUNITY-BASED NATURAL WATER SOURCES AND WASTEWATER ENVIRONMENTS: A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS IN UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA, NSUKKA AND ITS METROPOLIS.

The presence of pathogenic strains abounds in our environment, arising from many sources. The study was aimed at identifying Vibrio species, E. coli, and other coliforms in various water sources within a university setting and its metropolis. Approximately 20 samples from roof-collected rainwater, municipal piped tap water, borehole water and 60 samples of sewage effluent from the central effluent water of University of Nigeria, Nsukka were systematically collected at intervals and subjected to bacteriological analysis. The samples underwent dilutions, and aliquots were inoculated on chromocult and thiosulfate-citrate-bile salts-sucrose (TCBS) agar. Simultaneously, 100 ml of each natural water sample underwent membrane filtration, followed by the inoculation of TCBS agar plates in duplicates. Both sets of culture plates were incubated at 37 °C for 24 h. Further biochemical characterization was performed after microscopy. Susceptibility profile was done using disk diffusion assay. Descriptive statistics were used in the aggregation of the results where necessary. Results revealed that each sample, when plated on chromocult agar, yielded a substantial number of colonies of E. coli (bluish colour) and other coliforms (pink-red colonies). Notably, wastewater gave a maximum yield of Vibrio cholera. Conversely, all significant pathogenic Vibrio species were recovered on TCBS agar inoculated with natural water samples, wastewater and sewage effluent, with isolation rates appearing independent of both time (in weeks) and collection points. Antimicrobial susceptibility studies disclosed that some of the isolates exhibited antibiotic resistance. The study underscores the need to install appropriate measures to mitigate the contamination of the environment. Keywords: Wastewater, Vibrio, Antimicrobial, Chromocult, Pathogen, Sewage

Production and purification of water using natural based adsorbent from plantain peels

Activated charcoal or carbon commonly employed as filter examinant of water, and air with surface area of 300–2,000m2/g, adsorbs a wide range of impurities and contaminants. This study was undertaken to produce adsorbent from plantain peels (Natural based), for the treatment of water samples, subsequently tested. Pyrolysis activation method was adopted using H3P04 and KOH. Water samples of wells from Gonigora, boreholes from Ungwan Romi, fishponds from Kawo and Kaduna Polytechnic, river water from river Kaduna, rain, tap from Tudun Wada and Eva water from Coca-Cola were used for the analysis. Which include water treatment, pH determination, total suspended, total dissolved, and total volatile solids, colour and odour determination. The results showed activated carbon effectiveness on pH of water samples well within 7.00, for borehole, Tap, and 7.02, for pond, rain and Eva waters, while 7.10 for river water. This indicated that the adsorbent is active and compared favorably with the standard adsorbent which pH of the water samples treated were 7.00 for pond, rain, tap and Eva, while 7.02 and 7.04 for borehole and river water respectively. This validated the production of granular natural based adsorbent via pyrolysis of plantain peels at 4500C by chemical activation method. Therefore an economical adsorbent obtained naturally based as cheap, readily available waste material for future commercial purification application.

Production boreholes water quality evaluation using GIS based geostatistical algorithms in Windhoek

The acquaintance on the manifestation of production boreholes, its replenishment and chemical distinctive have distinct significance in semi-arid zone like Windhoek where production boreholes are partially source of water used for domestics. The goal of this research is to provide an overview for evaluation of production boreholes water quality in Windhoek by using GIS (Geographic Information System) and geostatistical algorithms. The production boreholes water quality parameters; pH, chloride, Iron, electrical conductivity and temperature were sampled and analyzed from production boreholes in Windhoek. Furthermore, maps of each parameter were produced by means of geostatistical (kriging) tactic. Moreover, semivariogram values were tested for different ordinary kriging models to ascertain the superlative fitted for the five water quality parameters and the superlative models were selected based on the average standard error, root mean square standardized error, root mean square error and mean square error. Five maps of the production boreholes water quality parameters were used to compute the production boreholes water quality map using the index technique. Therefore, pro-active measures must be taken into consideration to check the levels of pH, chloride, Iron and electrical conductivity and temperature to avert severe contamination and also to protect the production boreholes in Windhoek.