Comparative Analysis of Water Quality Index (WQI) from Selected Water Bodies in Different Regions of Southeast Nigeria

Abstract

This study was carried out to compare the water quality index of selected water bodies in Okigwe, Imo State, Nigeria. Water samples were collected from two streams, Ihiku and Iyiechu (upstream and downstream) and the experimental research was used for this study. Several physico-chemical characteristics were analyzed in line with W.H.O, USEPA, S.O.N. The results obtained from the physico- chemical parameters ranged as follows: air shade temperature (23.3-25.0), pH (5.7-6.8), Electrical conductivity (15.5-20.4), Total hardness (33-40.5), Alkalinity (55.5-70.8), Biological Oxygen Demand (2.6-5.0), Dissolved Oxygen (6.5-8.0), Sulphate (1.8-5.7), phosphate (5.2-7.0) and silica (0.66-0.78). The result showed that there were variations in the concentration as a result of anthropogenic activities of man. The water quality index was also checked and compared to standards. The Pearson’s Correlation Moment was performed at 0.01% level. The result showed that values obtained were statistically significant. However, adequate treatment facilities that purify sewage prior to discharge or disposal should be adopted.