ASSESSMENT OF WATER QUALITY FROM DIFFERENT SOURCES: BOREHOLE, WELL AND TAP WATER IN SANDAJI, LAFIA, NASARAWA STATE
Abstract
This study was conducted to assess the quality of water from three different sources; borehole, well and tap water commonly used for domestic purposes. Water samples were collected and analyzed for key physicochemical parameters (pH, temperature, total dissolved solids (TDS), conductivity, turbidity and nitrate), heavy metal concentrations (Pb, Cr, Hg, and Cd) and biological concentrations (E. coli). The results were compared with the permissible limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
Physicochemical analysis showed that all samples were acidic, with pH values ranging from 4.3 to 6.2, falling below the recommended range of 6.5-8.5. Sample B (well water) had the highest turbidity (19 NTU) and nitrate concentration (63 mg/L), exceeding WHO standards. Total dissolved solids and conductivity levels in all samples remained within acceptable limits.
Heavy metal analysis revealed that all samples exceeded the WHO and NAFDAC standards for Pb, Cr, Hg and Cd. The highest concentrations were found in the tap water (Sample C) for Pb and Cr, and in the well water (Sample B) for Hg and Cd. These levels pose serious health risks, including kidney damage, neurological disorders and developmental issues.
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