Assessment of Groundwater Quality and Contamination Levels Near Dumpsites and Slaughterhouses in Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract

Aims: To assess the level of total dissolved solids (TDS) and heavy metals contamination of groundwater, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and quality of groundwater from boreholes close to dumpsites and slaughterhouse in six L.G.A in Cross River State. Study Design: The study was a Completely Randomized Design (CRD), 3x6 factorial experimental design. Place and Duration of Study: Cross River State Water Board Laboratory for analysis, between September and October 2023 (8 weeks). Methodology: Standard laboratory procedures were carried out to determine, total dissolved solids (TDS), 10 ml of each heavy metal (nitrate, chloride, copper, zinc, aluminium, Fluoride, and ammonia) sample from each of six locations, was measured into a square sample cell for heavy metal determination.  Physical analysis of water samples for temperature, pH, conductivity, and BOD, were determined using thermometer, pH meter, Conductivity meter, BOD meter, respectively. Results: The results revealed that the pH for the ground water samples ranged from 4.26 – 7.0 indicating acidity in some of the water samples. The value for conductivity ranged between 31.33 – 603.67 µs/cm and was above the WHO standard for drinking water, fluoride ranged between 0.10 – 0.68mg/L and calcium with a range of 11.13 – 2.1.17mg/L which was within the WHO and NIS permissible limits. Standard BOD values were higher than all the controls. Findings suggest serious health implications. Gastrointestinal issues, irritation to the skin and eyes, hypertension, kidney damage, and complications for individuals with existing cardiovascular conditions are possible dangers. Again, higher BOD values suggest the presence of organic pollutants and microorganisms that deplete oxygen levels, making the water potentially harmful for drinking and aquatic life. Conclusion: Evidence from Increased acidity, conductivity, and BOD values, suggest there is high level of contamination of groundwater sources within the study area. This calls for urgent policy and health interventions.