ASSESSMENT OF TAP WATER QUALITY FOR DOMESTIC USED IN THREE (3) SELECTED WARDS IN KOMBOTSO LOCAL GOVERNMENT KANO

Abstract This study assessed the physicochemical and microbial quality of water in three selected wards in Kombotso Local Government, Kano State. Water samples from three different wards namely Danmaliki, Zawaciki and Chalawa were collected aseptically into containers and transported to the laboratory for physicochemical and microbiological investigations.Physicochemical analysis was carried out for dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), pH, temperature, turbidity, total dissolved solids (TDS), and conductivity. Microbiological analysis was carried out for the presence of total coliform bacteria.The results of physicochemical parameters analyzed for tap water in Danmaliki ward ranged between 4.04–4.92 mg/L, 1.23–1.92 mg/L, 6.00–6.64, 26.17–28.60°C, 35.00–36.00 NTU, 341–369 mg/L and 0.21–0.37 µS. Tap water in Zawaciki ward ranged between 3.19–4.13 mg/L, 0.14–1.33 mg/L, 6.03–6.30, 26.20–26.90°C, 31.00–33.00 NTU, 363–370 mg/L and 0.44–0.46 µS. Tap water in Chalawa ward ranged between 3.85–4.69 mg/L, 1.40–2.43 mg/L, 6.00–6.43, 27.20–28.20°C, 31.10–33.00 NTU, 361–368 mg/L and 0.52–0.55 µS for D.O., BOD, pH, temperature, turbidity, TDS and conductivity respectively. One species of gram-negative bacteria which is Escherichia coli was isolated and identified in the water samples. The tap water samples showed the presence of E. coli respectively.The recommendations include:Conserve water at home: There are many ways to conserve water at home, such as taking shorter showers, fixing leaky faucets, and watering your lawn less often.Support organizations that are working to protect water quality: There are many organizations that are working to protect water quality. You can support these organizations by donating money or volunteering your time. Public Awareness: Community awareness about safe water use, proper hygiene, and the importance of boiling or treating water before consumption is essential to reduce health risks.Infrastructure Improvement: Long-term solutions include improving sewage and water treatment systems to prevent future contamination and ensure safe drinking water.