Hand-dug Wells Research Articles

Distribution of host-specific Bacteriodales marker genes in water sources of selected rural areas of Vhembe District, South Africa

Access to safe drinking water sources and appropriate sanitation facilities remains a dream in low and middle-income countries including South Africa. This study identified the origin of faecal pollution by using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) targeting host-specific Bacteroidales genetic markers to track the distribution of human-specific (BacHum) and animal-specific (cattle—BacCow, chicken—Cytb, pig—Pig-2-Bac, dog—BacCan) markers in water sources used by rural communities of the Vhembe District Municipality (VDM). Results revealed the prevalence of BacHum, BacCow, and BacCan in all surface water sources in Thulamela Local Municipality (TLM) and Collins Chabane Local Municipality (CLM) during wet (100%) and dry seasons (50–75%). Cytb was not detected in untreated spring water in TLM and CLM, and Pig-2-Bac was not detected in untreated hand-dug well water in TLM during both seasons. Household-level analysis detected Cytb (28.8% wet, 17.5% dry), BacHum (34.4% wet, 25% dry for Pig-2-Bac) in stored untreated spring water in CLM, and Cytb (42.9% wet, 28.5% dry) in untreated hand-dug well water in TLM. Despite differences in detection frequencies of host-specific Bacteroidales, the study highlights the public health concern of faecal pollution in rural VDM households.

Spatial Model for Predicting the Cost of Constructing Hand-Dug Wells in Abeokuta City, Nigeria

Spatial Model for Predicting the Cost of Constructing Hand-Dug Wells in Abeokuta City, Nigeria

Water Sanitation Quality Assessment for Hand-Dug Wells

Purpose: Public toilet sanitation facilities need to be analyzed for water sanitation quality. This research aims to explain the benefits of hand-well water for sanitation in densely populated communal environments. Theoretical framework: This article presents literature support regarding sanitation, water quality, and pollutant index in Indonesia, regarding water sanitation conditions in dense urban organizations. Method: Comprehensive data on the quality of water sanitation used by people in dense settlements. Data was collected in the form of water as a laboratory test from 24 random dug wells in four sub-districts in Bandung City and analyzed by the regulations of the Minister of Health of the Republic of Indonesia. Results and Discussion: The research results show that an average of 75% of air wells are contaminated based on water sanitation quality and pollutant index based on Minister of Health Regulation Number 32 of 2017 and Number 2 of 2023 concerning Indonesian Environmental Health and Water Health Quality Standards. Research Implications: Our findings are important for policymakers, health workers, public health practitioners, and so that the community provides public toilet facilities that can be monitored and receive government attention to improve their quality. Originality/Value: The novelty of this research lies in that it presents a comprehensive assessment of water quality indices and physical, chemical, and microbiological parameters of hand wells in dense urban organizations.

Seasonal Variation and Antibiotic Susceptibility Patterns of Bacteriological Parameters in Groundwater Sources in Oyi LGA, Anambra State, Nigeria

Potable water is essential for health and survival of all life forms. Contamination of groundwater sources by microbes, organic and inorganic matter has continued to negatively affect the well-being of most people in developing countries such as Nigeria. Thus, this study aimed to determine the seasonal variation and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of bacteriological parameters in groundwater sources in Oyi LGA, Anambra State, Nigeria. Hand-dug well and borehole water sites were randomly selected in five communities of Oyi LGA, and water samples were aseptically collected and analyzed using standard microbiological procedures. The total heterotrophic counts of bacteria isolated from groundwater samples during both seasons were between 1.3×102 and 2.87×104 CFU/mL, total coliform counts ranged from 2 to 165 MPN/100mL and faecal coliform ranged from 0 to 32 MPN/100mL. Probable bacterial isolates in groundwater samples were Escherichia coli, Klebsiella aerogenes, Shigella flexneri, Enterococcus faecalis and Enterobacter sp. Seasonal variations showed there were more bacterial loads in sampled water during wet season than dry season. Antibiotic susceptibility test revealed that all the bacterial isolates were sensitive to Levofloxacin and Ofloxacin, and are recommended for treatment of diseases caused by some of these pathogens. Shigella flexneri exhibited highest susceptibility (60%) to the antibiotics, while Enterobacter faecalis showed highest resistance (70%). Escherichia coli exhibited 50% susceptibility and 50% resistance. The sampled water sources did not meet the WHO and NSDWQ guidelines for drinking water, and therefore not fit for human consumption without adequate treatment.

Evaluation of groundwater quality in communities near Sokoban Wood Village

Groundwater is vital for drinking, agriculture, and domestic use in Sokoban Wood Village, Ghana, but concerns exist about its quality. This study assessed the suitability of 20 groundwater samples for domestic purposes. The study was carried out in 2023. We collected samples from boreholes and hand-dug wells using standard methods, analyzing them for various physicochemical parameters (pH, electrical conductivity, turbidity, nitrates, fluorides, and heavy metals). The microbiological analysis assessed fecal coliforms and E. Coli to identify microbial contamination. Established methodologies were used to evaluate potential health risks (carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic) associated with heavy metals. The Water Quality Index (WQI), Hazard Potential Index (HPI), and Heavy Metal Evaluation Index (HEI) provided a comprehensive water quality evaluation. The results revealed that the water fell below the recommended WHO pH range for drinking water. While most other parameters and heavy metals fell within WHO guidelines, 25 % of the samples contained fecal coliforms and E. Coli, indicating ongoing microbial contamination. The overall cancer risk was low for all age groups. Although some parameters met WHO standards, the WQI classified 20 % of the samples as not of good quality. Despite this, the HPI and HEI (−4.62 and 0.001) suggested generally good water quality based on heavy metal content. In conclusion, despite some positive indicators, acidic water and microbial contamination raise concerns. Regular monitoring and potential treatment measures are crucial to ensure safe drinking water for the Sokoban Wood Village community.

Anthropogenic Gadolinium Anomalies in an Alluvial Plain with On-site Wastewater Treatment Systems in Campinas, SP, Brazil

Gadolinium anomalies have become a well-established marker for the pollution caused by wastewater, but there is not yet a standardized method to estimate the anomaly. Here, we compare four different published equations, distinct threshold values and reference normalizing values to estimate Gd anomalies by applying them to the results of a hydrochemical investigation in an alluvial aquifer with on-site sanitation systems. We measured traditional wastewater markers (such as electric conductivity, NO3_N, NH4–N, Cl-) and REE in groundwater samples collected from hand-dug wells in two seasons. The ratios of Gd normalized measured concentrations to Gd normalized geogenic concentrations (GdSN/Gd*) estimated with the various methods ranged from 0.7 to 2.8. It turned out that the choice of the equation and the threshold value can affect the decisions about anthropogenic pollution’s occurrence (or not). The normalizing values did not play a significant role in the decision. Based on measurement uncertainties and on the interpretation of hydrogeological conditions in the study area, a threshold value of 1.3 for defining anthropogenic Gd anomalies was deemed adequate for the study area. The occurrence of Gd anomalies higher than 1.8 in two wells, one in each season, reinforces the hypothesis that the groundwater is contaminated by the on-site sanitation systems in the study area, as intermittent detection of anthropogenic Gd is a characteristic of this pollution source.

Framework development for the physical vulnerability assessment index of hand-dug Wells in Are-Ekiti, Southwestern Nigeria.

The article presents a comprehensive framework for assessing the physical vulnerability of hand-dug wells within the Are Community, Southwestern Nigeria. The study spans from March to April 2023 and meticulously examines 90 wells, focusing on critical parameters such as well collar, well cover, and well lining information. The analysis reveals significant variations in well collar construction materials and dimensions, emphasizing the community's adaptive strategies. The Well Collar Height Index (WCi), Well Cover Index (WCOi), Well Lining Index (WLi), and the derived Vulnerability Index categorize wells into vulnerability classes, offering a nuanced understanding of susceptibility levels. Notably, the study identifies wells with Very High vulnerability that demand urgent attention, as well as wells with effective protective measures categorized as Very Low vulnerability. The article emphasizes the need for a nuanced understanding of local practices and materials, highlighting the variability in well collar construction. It discusses the implications of well cover conditions and the critical role of well linings in assessing groundwater vulnerability. The Vulnerability Index combines these parameters, guiding targeted interventions based on risk severity. The study lays the groundwork for future interventions to enhance the safety and sustainability of water sources within the Are Community. It recommends immediate comprehensive measures for highly vulnerable wells, ongoing monitoring, community engagement, and knowledge sharing. The future scope includes incorporating geochemical analysis, targeted interventions, regular maintenance, community training, and exploring alternative water sources for sustainable improvements.

Geophysical and physicochemical assessment of groundwater and the implication on the public health in rural and semi-urban areas of Northern Nigeria

Groundwater resource plays a central role in every sector of life globally. Unfortunately, the roles of groundwater are often unappreciated in many parts of the world, especially in developing nations. The paper applied a combined geo-electrical method and hydrochemical analysis alongside physical surveys to investigate aquifer promising zones, the quality and the source of water supply in the selected regions. The geo-electric resistivity data were used to select the most aquifer-promising zone for groundwater development with a key interest in groundwater potential and aquifer overburden protective capacity overlying the water-bearing unit. Seventeen (17) vertical electrical sounding (VES) acquired in four regions reveals that the regional weathered/fractured unit which constitutes the aquifer unity extends from 13.4 m to 41.3 m in depth with the subsurface resistivity value varying between 53 Ωm–1013 Ωm in terms of resistivity values. The overburdened thickness (protective soil layers) stretches from 2.5 m to 13 m with a resistive layer of resistivity values ranging from 111 Ωm to 2877 Ωm, which could provide high aquifer protective cover for the regional groundwater systems. The computed aquifer transmissivity and hydraulic conductivity range from 0.54 m2/h\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$${m}^{2}/h$$\\end{document}–15.85 m2/h\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$${m}^{2}/h$$\\end{document}, and 0.95 m/day–9.19 m/day, respectively. The estimated average longitudinal conductance (0.2 moh) reveals that the regional groundwater systems are moderately protective against surface contaminants. In addition, the physicochemical water analysis was examined, which exposes the level of heavy metals (HMs) compositions in the regional groundwater systems and the possible public health risks compared to WHO permissible drinking water limits. The sample water from the Rivers had the highest concentration of HMs (0.089 mg/I–2.012 mg/l), followed by the hand-dug wells (HWDs) (0.033 mg/l–1.555 mg/l) and the lowest in the borehole (0.011 mg/l–0.511 mg/l). In contrast, the borehole water sample shows a moderation where the HMs presence falls within the WHO standard for drinking water. The outcomes of the study show that 63% of the investigated region consumed water with a high concentration of HMs above the WHO permissible standard allowance for drinking water, while only 37% took water that falls within the WHO permissible standard. In conclusion, the study showed significant impacts of anthropogenic activities on the regional water quality, which provides vital information about the regional groundwater systems and the quality of water supply for adequate groundwater development and sustainability.

Assessment of physicochemical, minerals and microbiological qualities of borehole and well water: A case study of Akure Metropolis, Nigeria

Groundwater constitutes a substantial reservoir of fresh water utilized for agricultural irrigation and drinking, emphasizing the critical importance of safeguarding its availability and quality. Contamination of groundwater can arise from chemical, physical, or microbiological sources, each contributing to various health-related issues. In the region of FUTA Southgate, Southwest Nigeria, an assessment was conducted on the physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of groundwater from hand-dug wells and boreholes to ascertain its suitability for human consumption. The analysis indicated that parameters such as BOD, DO TS, TH, and nitrate content were within the acceptable limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDQ). However, the presence of heavy metals like Fe, Cu, Cr, Pb, Mn, Cd, and Zn was detected using an atomic absorption spectrometer, revealing a slight level of contamination in both water sources. Furthermore, microbiological examination identified Total Coliform Counts of 382 cfu and 159 cfu in hand-dug wells and boreholes, respectively, indicating fecal contamination. The findings suggest that inadequate sewage systems and improper waste disposal practices contribute to the compromised water quality and elevated nitrate levels in hand-dug wells, rendering the shallow aquifer groundwater unsafe for drinking purposes across all evaluated parameters. Consequently, appropriate treatment and disinfection measures are imperative before utilizing the contaminated borehole and groundwater wells for human consumption or industrial purposes.

Integrated stratigraphical, hydrogeochemical, and geophysical studies to characterize the shallow groundwater aquifers in Wadi Araba area, western Gulf of Suez, Egypt

The construction of the New Galala City besides great mining (e.g., konoozmisr) and Seawater Reverse Osmosis Desalination Plant projects in the semiarid Gulf of Suez region of Egypt increases the demand for groundwater resources. So, the current research provides integrated stratigraphical, hydrogeochemical, and geophysical studies to investigate the shallow groundwater aquifers in Wadi Araba area on the western side of the Gulf of Suez. The stratigraphic column starts with pre-Cambrian basement rocks which are non-conformably overlain by sedimentary succession of Phanerozoic Erathem. A detailed land magnetic profile has been conducted and processed to estimate the aquifer’s geometrical parameters. This includes the subsurface spatial extension and thickness to delineate the prevailed subsurface structures in the study area. Lithostratigraphically, these aquifers are represented by the Paleozoic- lower Cretaceous siliciclastic-dominated sediments of the Nubia Group and fractured carbonate-dominated facies of the upper Cretaceous Galala Formation. Lithological characters, sedimentary facies (fluvial to shallow and open marine), microfacies types, and diagenesis processes (e.g., compaction, cementation, dissolution, and fracturing) are the main factors that affect the quality of the shallow aquifers in the study area. The main microfacies of the studied aquifers are quartz arenite, subarkose, sublitharenite, mudstone/wackestone, and packstone/grainstone. These facies are characterized by different primary and secondary porosities. According to the water sampling standard methods, nineteen groundwater samples were collected from the available hand-dug wells and springs from the Nubian sandstone aquifer and the Upper Cretaceous aquifer, respectively. Inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP–MS), titration, spectrophotometer and a flame photometer were used to obtain a complete chemical analysis. The results of hydrochemical analyses indicated that total dissolved solids (TDS) and concentrations of major ions as well in the lower Cretaceous aquifer increase toward the Gulf of Suez and in general higher than that of springs of the Upper Cretaceous Aquifer. The predominant factors influencing groundwater chemistry include seawater intrusion, evaporation, mineral alteration, dissolution of fossils, and ion exchange. Groundwater in the study area is unsuitable for drinking except in one sample and moderately suitable for irrigation with caution for higher salinity in samples located near the Gulf of Suez.

Deciphering groundwater pollution in the Lower Anayari Catchment: insights from using δ2H, δ18O, PMF, and APCS-MLR receptor model.

This research provides a comprehensive analysis of groundwater pollution in the Lower Anayari Catchment (LAC) through δ2H and δ18O isotopic analysis, along with positive matrix factorization (PMF) and PCS-MLR receptor models. Forty groundwater samples were collected from hand-dug wells and equipped boreholes across the LAC. Flame photometry for Na+ and K+, complexometric titration for Ca2+, ion chromatography for Cl-, F-, NO3-, SO42-, and PO43-, and atomic absorption spectrometry for Mg2+, Fe, Pb, Cd, As, and Ni were analytical techniques/instruments employed. In regard to cations, Na+ has the highest average concentration of 63.0 mg/L, while Mg2+ has the lowest at 2.58 mg/L. Concerning the anions and nutrients, Cl- has the highest mean concentration of 18.7 mg/L, and Fl- has the lowest at 0.50 mg/L. Metalloids were detected in trace amount with Fe displaying the highest mean concentration of 0.077 mg/L whereas Cd and As recorded lowest (0.001 mg/L). The average values for groundwater δ18O and δ2H were - 3.64‰ and - 20.7‰, respectively; the average values for rainwater isotopic composition were - 3.41‰ for δ18O and - 17.4‰ for δ2H. It is believed that natural geological features, particularly biotite granitoid and volcanic flow/subvolcanic rocks from the Birimian Supergroup, significantly influence groundwater mineralisation. Additionally, the impact of anthropogenic activities on water quality, with urban development and agricultural practices, may be attributed to increasing levels of certain contaminants such as Fe, Ni, NO3-, and PO43-. This research contributes to the broader field of hydrological study and provides practical implications for managing and conserving water resources in similar contexts. The innovative combination of isotopic and statistical analyses sets a new standard for future studies in groundwater quality assessment, emphasising the need for comprehensive approaches that consider both geological characteristics and human impacts for sustainable water resource management.

Concentration of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Water from Hand-dug Wells in Some Communities in Ekpeyeland, Rivers State, Nigeria

Well water sources from selected communities in Ekpeyeland were assessed for the concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The assessment was conducted seasonally in six communities. The concentrations of the PAHs were determined using standard methods and procedures and finally quantified by the use of GC-MS chromatography. The result showed the presence of all the 16 USEPA priority PAHs in the examined water samples. Seasonal variations were not significant. The summed values of PAHs from stations and seasons were above the permissible limit required for by WHO. Classification of the different categories of PAHs identified higher molecular weight (HMW) PAHs more in concentration than lower molecular weight (LMW) PAHs in the wells. Source identification proved that both pyrogenic and petrogenic sources were responsible for the presence of PAHs in the well water. However, pyrogenic source was the more prominent source of PAHs in the water. There was high level of carcinogenic PAHs in the water and thus the water portends danger to the users. Therefore, the locals are advised not to consume the water to avoid its effect on the long run.

Quantifying water loss in leaky micro-dam reservoir through water balance analysis and high-resolution water level data modeling

Abstract This study aimed to assess the runoff, recharge, and response of a shallow aquifer to leakage from the Arato micro-dam reservoir (MDR). The assessment was conducted using the Soil Conservation Service Curve Number (SCS-CN), soil moisture balance (SMB), and diver (automatic data logger) measurements in both the MDR and a shallow hand-dug well. Recharge was estimated using the chloride mass balance (CMB) and water table fluctuation (WTF) methods. The results revealed that the annual runoff from the catchment was 48.8 mm, which accounted for approximately 0.71 million m3. The yearly groundwater recharge was estimated to be 104, 92.8, and 100 mm using the SMB, CMB, and WTF methods, respectively. Furthermore, the water balance model of the Arato MDR indicated a leakage rate of 13.2 mm/day. It is noteworthy that the estimated leakage exceeded the seepage initially anticipated during the project's design phase (9,965 m3/year). This research project highlights the significance of utilizing local climatic and physical data from the specific watershed under investigation when planning reservoirs and other water resources. It also underscores the importance of conducting thorough site investigations to accurately quantify hydraulic conductivity for leakage estimation purposes.

Heavy Metals Pollution and Other Physicochemical Parameters in the Crude Oil-Impacted Santa Barbara River and Environs, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

Higher levels of heavy metals in aquatic environments are most likely influenced by crude oil spills which may induce significant risk of heavy metal toxicity in aquatic species and humans. This research evaluated the levels of heavy metals and other physicochemical parameters in the crude oil-impacted Santa-Barbara River and environs of Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Heavy metals and other physicochemical parameters were examined using standard methods. Heavy metal pollution status was then deduced with standard pollution indicators. The water and fish samples collected from crude oil-impacted Santa Barbara River were heavily and moderately contaminated with iron, respectively (Igeo index = 4.29 and 2.87 for water and fish, respectively) and highly polluted with examined heavy metals (PLI = 4.29 and 1.13 for water and fish, respectively). The water samples from hand-dug wells were moderately contaminated with iron (Igeo index = 2.87) with overall low pollution by heavy metals (PLI = 0.46), while fish sold in neighboring communities was moderately contaminated with iron (Igeo index = 2.98) with overall moderate pollution by heavy metals (PLI = 0.86). However, potential ecological risks mediated by examining heavy metals in all water and fish samples were generally low (RI < 40). The total dissolved solids, biochemical oxygen demand, nitrate and phosphate concentrations in all water samples were within permissible limits of WHO and FEPA. The ecological risks associated with water and fish from all sampling locations were deduced as low, mainly because iron was the most abundant heavy metal contaminant with no significant toxic response.

The Relation between Geodiversity and Biodiversity of Al-Salman Depression, Al-Muthana Governorate, Southern Desert of Iraq

The study area is located in the southern desert of Iraq, near the Al-Salman Depression, about 130 km southwest of Al-Samawa City. The Collection of data of this study depends mainly upon field surveys, sample collection of rocks, soil, plants, and animals besides interviews with locals as well as photographing of interesting aspects. The geodiversity of the study area comprises geological features, geomorphological features, soil types, and water resources. The exposed rocks of study area are composed mainly of carbonate rocks, in addition to marl, sandstone, and claystone, which belong to the Middle member of the Dammam Formation (L. Eocene). The main landforms found near the Al-Salman area are flat terrain, depressions (faidhats), wadis, caves, and sinkholes. Three types of soils were recognized; silty clay, clayey silt, and sandy soils. The main water resources are the ephemeral streams (wadis), and water wells in sinkhole, besides the mechanical and hand-dug wells. Geodiversity features formed many habitats in the study area such as Wadi Al-Owja, depressions (faidhats), flat terrain, and sinkhole. The present study reveals that biodiversity includes a wide diversity of plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates. Some species were restricted to certain habitat types in the study area, while other species proved to be more generalist.

Analysis of Households’ Water Access and Consumption in Differential Urban Neighbourhoods of Osogbo, Nigeria

The study focused on scrutinizing the sources and consumption patterns of domestic water supply in Osogbo, with an emphasis on households' socio-economic characteristics. Data were collected from three deliberately chosen residential neighborhoods representing low, medium, and high-density areas, with a cumulative population of 134,159 and an estimated 26,829 households. Employing a multistage sampling technique, 25% of streets in each neighborhood were randomly selected, and systematic sampling was utilized to distribute 268 structured questionnaires (1% of households) to gather information. Descriptive analyses, such as means and percentages, were employed to scrutinize socio-economic characteristics and water consumption patterns. The study also utilized inferential statistics, specifically Multiple Analysis of Variance (MANOVA), to assess the impact of residential densities and water sources on water consumption volume. Results highlighted hand-dug wells (46%), public taps (22.4%), and boreholes (15.7%) as thepredominant water sources. MANOVA revealed a statistically significant influence of residential densities and water sources on water consumption volume (p=0.049). In low-density areas, households consumed an average of 960 liters per day, compared to 735 and 517.5 liters in medium- and high-density areas, respectively. Across Osogbo, the average household consumed 664.7 liters daily. Correlation analysis indicated a positive and statistically significant relationship between resident population and water consumption (p<0.05). The study concluded by emphasizing the pivotal roles of government, communities, NGOs, and individuals in addressing water provision challenges in the area.

Multivariate analysis of seasonal changes of chemical elements in groundwater around Solous lll dumpsite, Lagos, South-West Nigeria

The study of changes in groundwater quality across the study areas became necessary to track the sources of the contamination in the water sources. Assessment of the physiochemical parameters of groundwater samples obtained from both borehole and hand-dug wells were conducted around the Solous III dumpsite, Lagos, South-western, Nigeria. Multivariate statistics such as correlation coefficient analysis, Hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal component analyses (PCA) were utilised to assess the mode of association of parameters and their interrelationships to establish possible sources of groundwater contamination. Eight groundwater samples were obtained around the dumpsite during the wet and dry seasons for analyses of their physicochemical properties. The results of the analyses of water samples indicated seasonal changes for the various elemental constituents analysed. There was generally an increase in mean concentration of total dissolved solid (TDS), pH, temperature and hardness in the dry season study, and a corresponding increase in the mean concentration of Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, SO42−, NO32−, Pb, and Cr, when compared with the wet season. On the other hand, there was reduction in the mean concentration of electrical conductivity (EC), K+, Cl−, PO43−, Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu, and Ni in the dry season when compared with the wet season. Some of the water sample parameters exhibited high concentration when compared with the World Health Organisation (WHO)/Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) standards, which may be due to the impact of leachate migration from the dumpsite. Five varimax rotated factor loadings and communalities were responsible for 30 % and 35 % of the total variance in the data set during wet and dry seasons respectively. The PCA parameters identified to be influencing the quality of water are perhaps related to anthropogenic activities from the dumpsite, soluble mineral dissolution, rock–groundwater interaction and weathering activities while PCA performed on samples of groundwater during wet and dry seasons indicated 2 and 3 important clusters, respectively. The clusters of parameters as observed in the parameters dendrograms clearly validates the results earlier obtained in the correlation analysis component of this research. The dendrogram was also able to reflect variation in the quality of water with season as indicated in the difference in the number of clusters during both wet and dry seasons. The outcome of this research should help highlight and focus water quality management on key chemical elements of concern and prioritize efforts to mitigate their release into groundwater around the study area. By extension, this research work offers specific contribution to achieving the Africa's Union's Agenda 2063 Goal No. 7 i.e. Environmentally sustainable and climate resilient economies and communities, with Priority Area of Water Security.

Assessing the Influence of Hand-Dug Well Features and Management on Water Quality

Assessing the Influence of Hand-Dug Well Features and Management on Water Quality

Distribution and toxicity of dihydroxybenzenes in drinking water sources in Nigeria.

This study provides, for the first time, data on the distribution and toxicity of catechol (CAT) and hydroquinone (HQ) in drinking water sources from Africa. Groundwater (boreholes and hand-dug wells) and surface water in three Southwestern States in Nigeria served as sampling sites. The concentrations of CAT and HQ in groundwater and surface water were determined throughout a period of 12 months, evaluating the effects of seasonal variation (rainy and dry seasons). Mean concentrations of CAT in water samples were higher than those of HQ. In this study, CAT was more frequently detected, with its mean concentration in groundwater samples higher in the rainy season (430 μg L-1) than in the dry season (175 μg L-1). Multivariate analysis using the Principal Component Analysis Software suggests that in most sample sites, CAT and HQ in water samples were from entirely different anthropogenic sources. The most impacted population groups were the toddlers and infants. Similarly, maximum and median concentrations of CAT in water samples pose serious risks to Daphnia at both acute and chronic levels. The results from this study suggest the need for further control of these dihydroxybenzenes through regular monitoring and removal from drinking water during treatment.

Impact of On-Site Sanitation and Siting of Boreholes on Ground Water Quality in Choma Urban: A Case of New Kalundu and Humba Residential Areas.

Groundwater is a climate–resilient source of freshwater for most sub–Sahara African countries and plays a vital role in sustaining improved access to safe water in pursuit of United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6 – water and sanitation for all by 2030. However, the potential for on-site sanitation to cause major contamination to groundwater has been known for many years, prompting authorities to advise minimum safe distances between boreholes (water sources) and soakaway. This study evaluated the effects of on-site sanitation and borehole placement on the quality of groundwater in residential areas. The study employed an embedded mixed methodology with a descriptive cross-sectional approach. 138 household heads were involved in the study and 15 water samples were collected for microbiological analysis. Data from households was collected using structured questionnaires while upholding all ethical issues. The study found that 85% of households used on-site sanitation systems as their primary means of waste treatment and disposal, while the remaining 15% used other methods like pit latrines. Due to the utility company’s unstable and unreliable supply of water, residents turned to alternative sources of drinking water, such as drilling boreholes and hand-dug wells within and around compounds, using soakaway systems for waste disposal close to the drinking water source. The chi-square tests revealed that the position of the soakaway, as well as the distance between the water sources and the soakaway, have an influence on water quality. The study concluded that establishment of water sources near any pollution source (soakaway) has a negative impact on the quality of groundwater resources. We recommended that local authorities should not permit construction at any plot less than 30 x 30 meters in its dimensions to have both borehole and on-site sanitation system but rather one of the two.