Assessment of Drinking Water Quality from Shallow Aquifers in Host Communities of FEDPONEK and FUTO in Imo State, Southeastern Nigeria

Abstract

Nekede, Ihiagwa and Eziobodo communities has witnessed an upsurge in its population since the establishment of Federal Polytechnic Nekede (FEDPONEK) and Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO). A total of 45 groundwater samples were collected from boreholes tapping from the shallow aquifers system in the area and analyzed for relevant physical, chemical and bacteriological parameters using standard analytical methods. The essence of the study is to compare the quality/portability of the groundwater with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ). The pH of the water ranges from 4.5 to 7.1 with an average value of 5.7. The total coliform counts vary from 32 cfu/cm to 425 cfu/cm with an average value of 115.0 cfu/cm. The concentration of manganese varies from 0.0mg/l to 1.5mg/l and a mean value of 0.3mg/l. The results of the physio-chemical parameters compare favourably with the World Health Organization and Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality except Mn and pH in some locations. The low pH indicates that the water is slightly acidic and should be treated for pH before consumption. The bacteriological result shows high level of Total coliform and Escherichia coli in the groundwater which is an indication of faecal contamination. The water in the area is predominantly soft to moderately hard. In view of the high bacteria coliform count, boiling of water before drinking is important. It is also recommended that proper sanitary toilets be constructed in the area. The water in the area is Calcium-Bicarbonate type.