Engineering and Applied Sciences Journal
ISSN: 3067-8005 | DOI: 10.64030/3067-8005
Christian Chibundu Odinkemere and Isiguzo Edwin Ahaneku
This study aimed to assess the water quality parameters along Imo River, Nigeria. A total of 18 samples were collected along the Imo River, at three stations viz; Onuimo, in Obowo L.G.A., Ugbo kiri in Isiala Ngwa and Okpala in Ngor Okpala in order to have a comprehensive idea of overall quality variation in the river. The three sampling stations are one kilometer apart from each other. Three samples were collected from each station. This was collected for a period of two seasons viz: Rainy and Dry seasons. Water quality parameters were determined using standard methods. The results of this study revealed that some of the water quality parameters of Imo River, such as Temperature, Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Electrical Conductivity and Dissolved Oxygen are within the acceptable limit on the standard set by NSDWQ, WHO and FAO. However, Total Dissolved Solids, pH, Turbidity, Total Hardness, E. coli and Feacel Streptococci are above the permissible limits. The river is slightly acidic and polluted with evidence of microbes. The results showed that the river is more polluted in the dry season than in the rainy season. Principal Component Analysis suggested four principal pollution sources: organic and anthropogenic activities (including battery charging), agricultural and residential runoff, nutrient sources, and meteorological factors. The study concludes that while the river's water should not be consumed without treatment, it could be used for irrigation purposes, specifically for crops not consumed raw. It is recommended that regular assessments of the river's water quality be conducted at least triennially.