The Water Quality Index (WQI) and Hydrochemical Characterization of Groundwater Resources in Hydrocarbon Polluted Sites in the Niger Delta

Abstract

The quality of groundwater resources is as important as their quantity. Hydrochemical studies are a useful tool which can help in managing quality of water resources. The aim of this study is to evaluate the hydrochemical characteristics, water quality, contamination as well as sources of contamination of groundwater. Water quality assessment was carried out on groundwater to appraise the levels of Heavy metals in Khana and Gokana LGAs of Rivers State and ascertain the suitability of the groundwater resources in the area for human domestic consumption and irrigation purpose. A random sampling approach was employed for groundwater sampling and samples were collected from a total of twenty-two (22) boreholes in the area. A total of ten (10) residential boreholes were sampled in Khana area and twelve (12) in Gokana local government area, Rivers State, Nigeria. Standard sampling and analytical methods were used. The study revealed that cations such as Ca, Na, Mg, and K showed concentrations within WHO regulatory standards in all the samples analyzed and generally in order of decreasing concentration; Ca > Na > Mg > K in groundwater from the area. Anions such as SO , Cl and HCO were within permissible standard 4 3 3 except NO that showed concentrations above the regulatory limit of 5.0mg/L in both Khana and Gokana Local Government Areas of Rivers State. The results from the Water Quality Index (WQI) ranged from 53.55 to 103.32 in Khana area, denoting poor, very poor and unsuitable water quality for consumption. Similarly, in Gokana area, WQI ranged from 72.71 to 112.92, indicating poor, very poor and unsuitable water quality for consumption. Based on the deteriorated quality of groundwater in the study area as revealed by this study, there is therefore the need of an urgent remediation of oil impacted areas to mitigate further impact on the water table. This study provides a qualitative measure of the water quality around the study locations which suggests the necessity of the remedial actions to the contaminated sources in order to keep the water safe and reliable for present and future consumption. The main innovative things of this study is that Water Quality Index (WQI) has been used which ultimately help us to understand the water quality in the study areas. Moreover, it will be helpful in monitoring activities and for further water quality management to prevent the pollution

Publication Info:

Author: Nwankwoala, H.O. & Amachree, T.

Volume: 56

Issue: March

Published By: Journal of Mining and Geology, 2024-03-01