ABSTRACT
Water quality
is a crucial factor in public health, particularly in rapidly growing urban
areas. This study assesses the physicochemical and bacteriological
characteristics of drinking water sources within Dutse Metropolis, Jigawa
State, Nigeria. A total of [X] water samples were collected from different
locations, including boreholes, wells, and sachet water vendors. The
physicochemical parameters analyzed include pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen
(DO), total dissolved solids (TDS), and heavy metals such as lead (Pb) and
arsenic (As). The bacteriological assessment involved total coliform and
Escherichia coli counts to determine microbial contamination. Results indicated
that while some parameters met the World Health Organization (WHO) and Nigerian
Standards for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ) guidelines, others exceeded
permissible limits, raising concerns about potential health risks. The presence
of coliform bacteria in some samples suggests possible fecal contamination,
emphasizing the need for improved water treatment and sanitation practices.
This study highlights the urgent need for regular monitoring and policy
interventions to ensure the safety of drinking water in Dutse Metropolis.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Title
Page
Certification
Dedication
Acknowledgments
Abstract
Table
of Contents
List
of Tables
List
of Figures
Chapter
One: Introduction
1.1
Background of the Study
1.2 Statement of the Problem
1.3 Objectives of the Study
1.4 Research Questions
1.5 Justification of the Study
1.6 Scope and Limitations
Chapter
Two: Literature Review
2.1
Overview of Drinking Water Quality
2.2 Physicochemical Properties of Drinking Water
2.3 Bacteriological Contaminants and Health Implications
2.4 Sources of Water Contamination
2.5 Water Quality Standards (WHO and NSDWQ)
2.6 Previous Studies on Drinking Water in Nigeria
Chapter
Three: Materials and Methods
3.1
Study Area
3.2 Sampling Techniques
3.3 Physicochemical Analysis Methods
3.4 Bacteriological Analysis Methods
3.5 Data Analysis
Chapter
Four: Results and Discussion
4.1
Physicochemical Properties of Water Samples
4.2 Bacteriological Analysis Results
4.3 Comparison with Water Quality Standards
4.4 Possible Sources of Contamination
4.5 Implications for Public Health
Chapter
Five: Conclusion and Recommendations
5.1
Summary of Findings
5.2 Conclusion
5.3 Recommendations
5.4 Suggestions for Further Research
References
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1
Background of the Study
The
planet is rich in water resources, yet only about 0.3% of it is accessible for
human use. This includes freshwater from lakes (0.009%), inland seas (0.008%),
soil moisture (0.005%), the atmosphere (0.001%), rivers (0.0001%), and
groundwater (0.279%). In contrast, the vast majority of Earth's water is
saline, with oceans comprising 97.2% and glaciers and ice accounting for 2.15%
(Zitta, 2024).
Water is
crucial for human nutrition, serving both as drinking water and as a component
of food, while also being integral to various daily activities. The rapid pace
of industrialization, urbanization, and population growth has significantly
increased the demand for high-quality water for domestic, recreational, and
industrial uses, thereby threatening the sustainability of this vital resource
(Miller et al, 2021).
In many
developing nations, particularly in Africa, a large portion of the population
relies on surface water sources for their needs, often using these same sources
for waste disposal. Many individuals depend on unprotected or contaminated
water supplies for drinking, which can lead to outbreaks of waterborne
diseases. A significant number of people in these regions lack access to safe
drinking water, forcing them to use untreated sources such as rivers,
reservoirs, springs, and groundwater for their daily needs (Okesanya et al,
2024)
The
provision of clean drinking water remains a significant challenge in developing
countries like Nigeria. According to a report by the National Bureau of
Statistics (2009), approximately 27% of rural residents in Northcentral Nigeria
rely entirely on springs, streams, ponds, rivers, dams, and rainwater due to
the scarcity of clean water (Tsenbeya, 2011). Water is not only essential for
life but also a major vehicle for disease transmission, contributing to high rates
of infant mortality in many developing nations. Contaminated water can harbor
various pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa, which are
linked to numerous health issues. The ability of water to spread these
pathogens to large populations, resulting in illness, has been documented
across various economic contexts (WHO, 2017).
Research
indicates a high incidence of waterborne diseases such as cholera, diarrhea,
dysentery, and hepatitis in these regions, leading to the deaths of at least
100,000 individuals annually. The World Health Organization estimates that
about 80% of diseases in developing countries are attributable to waterborne
pathogens due to the consumption of contaminated water, with approximately 3.1%
of deaths linked to poor water quality (Adamu et al, 2022).
In recent
years, concerns regarding health issues stemming from poor water quality have
garnered global attention. Most microorganisms that proliferate in drinking
water are heterotrophs that require essential inorganic nutrients like
phosphates and nitrates for growth (Baker et al., 2019). The
introduction of these nutrients into drinking water can significantly enhance
the growth of heterotrophic bacteria, as phosphorus is a critical yet scarce
element for microbial development (Miettinen et al., 2017).
Water
quality is a multifaceted issue that encompasses physical, chemical,
hydrological, and biological characteristics, which are essential for assessing
water acceptability (AWWA, 2018). Understanding the quality of specific water
bodies is vital for policymakers to develop effective management strategies to
combat water pollution. Monitoring water quality is crucial, especially in
vulnerable regions, to protect public health and manage freshwater resources
effectively. This research aims to provide insights into the physico-chemical
and bacteriological quality of domestic water sources and evaluate their
suitability for human consumption based on established water quality standards
(WHO, 2017).
1.2
Statement of Research Problem
The
quality of drinking water is a critical public health issue, yet there is
limited data on the physico-chemical and bacteriological characteristics of
drinking water sources within the Dutse metropolis of Jigawa State. This lack
of information raises concerns about potential health risks for residents who
may be exposed to contaminated water.
As
urbanization and population growth continue to escalate in Dutse metropolis,
the demand for safe drinking water has increased significantly. This situation
necessitates an urgent evaluation of the physico-chemical parameters and
microbial contamination levels in local water sources. The prevalence of
waterborne diseases in Jigawa State further emphasizes the need for systematic
investigations into the bacteriological quality of drinking water in Dutse,
especially considering that inadequate sanitation practices may compromise
water safety.
Moreover,
the interaction between various anthropogenic activities and natural
environmental factors in Dutse metropolis may significantly influence the
physico-chemical properties of drinking water. However, these relationships
have not been adequately explored in existing literature. Understanding the
knowledge and perceptions of local residents regarding water quality and safety
is also crucial, as these factors may influence their water consumption
practices and ultimately impact public health outcomes in the area.
Finally,
the absence of regular monitoring and assessment protocols for drinking water
quality in Dutse metropolis highlights the need for research that can inform
policy decisions aimed at improving water safety and public health in the
region. This investigation aims to address these gaps by providing
comprehensive data on the quality of drinking water in Dutse metropolis,
thereby contributing to efforts to enhance public health and safety.
1.3
Aim and Objectives
1.3.1
Aim
The main
aim of this research is to assess the physico-chemical and bacteriological
quality of drinking water sources within Dutse metropolis, Jigawa State, to
determine their safety for human consumption and identify potential health
risks.
1.3.2 Objectives
1. To
evaluate the physico-chemical parameters of drinking water sources in Dutse
metropolis.
2. To
conduct a bacteriological analysis of drinking water samples from various
sources in Dutse metropolis to detect the presence of pathogenic microorganisms
and assess the overall microbial safety of the water supplied to residents.
1.4
Research Questions
1. What
are the physico-chemical parameters of drinking water sources in Dutse
metropolis?
2. What
pathogenic microorganisms are present in drinking water samples from various
sources in Dutse metropolis, and what does this indicate about the overall
microbial safety of
the water supplied to residents?
1.5
Significance of the Study
The
significance of this study lies in its potential to enhance public health and
safety in Dutse metropolis, Jigawa State, by providing crucial data on the
physico-chemical and bacteriological quality of drinking water sources. By
identifying the presence of harmful contaminants and pathogenic microorganisms,
the research aims to inform local authorities, policymakers, and health
organizations about the current state of water quality in the region. This information
is vital for developing effective strategies and interventions to ensure access
to safe drinking water, thereby reducing the risk of waterborne diseases and
promoting overall commufnity health. Additionally, the findings may raise
awareness among residents about the importance of water safety and encourage
better water management practices, contributing to sustainable water resource
management in the area.
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