Assessment of the Selected Physicochemical Properties of Well Water in Isuofia Aguata Local Government Area, Anambra State, Nigeria.

Abstract

Background: Access to safe drinking water remains a critical challenge in rural Nigeria, where contaminated well water contributes to waterborne diseases. This study assessed the physicochemical properties and heavy metal concentrations of well water in Isuofia, Aguata Local Government Area, Anambra State, to evaluate its suitability for human consumption and inform water management strategies.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study sampled 12 wells randomly across six villages during the dry season. Parameters including pH, temperature, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), and heavy metals (chromium, copper, mercury, iron, lead) were analyzed using calibrated multi-parameter instruments and atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Data were compared to WHO and NSDWQ standards using Pearson’s correlation. Results: Findings revealed alkaline pH (8.0–10.6, mean 9.42 ± 0.76; 75% exceeding 6.5–8.5), high TDS (0.47–7.78 g/L, mean 2.16 ± 1.92 g/L; 83.3% exceeding 1.0 g/L), elevated temperatures (32.0–38.5°C, mean 34.92 ± 1.94°C), and EC (0.005–0.118 µS/cm, below 1000 µS/cm). Lead (83.3%), mercury (75%), and copper (58.3%) exceeded WHO limits, while chromium and iron were within safe levels.
Discussion and Implications: Exceedances, likely from agricultural runoff, waste disposal, and geological factors, pose risks of neurological and gastrointestinal issues, particularly for children.
Conclusion: These findings confirm hypotheses on TDS, EC, and heavy metal exceedances, underscoring the urgent need for regular monitoring, point-of-use filtration, public awareness, and infrastructure upgrades to ensure safe drinking water and support sustainable water management in rural Nigeria.