Effects of urban wastes on the quality of Asata River in Enugu, south eastern Nigeria

Abstract

Water samples from nine sample stations in Asata River Enugu, were analysed to determine the effects of urban wastes on the quality of the river water. Stations A- F were located in more urbanized areas of the city, while G-I were in less urbanized areas. Results of laboratory analysis show higher values of parameters( pH, turbidity, colour, conductivity, suspended solids, total dissolved solids, dissolved oxygen and biochemical oxygen demand and faecal coliform) at stations A- F than at G-I. Results of physico-chemical parameters showed values within safe limits. However, all samples failed to meet bacteriological standards. A strong degree of association was found to exist between sampling station distance from waste dump and dissolved oxygen (r = 0.88) and with total suspended solids (r= - 0.73). The study indicates that the river water quality was much lower in higher density, more urbanized areas of Enugu urban where waste generation and management is a growing problem. The study identifies the need for the development of a sustainable municipal waste management strategy that will encourage source reduction, reuse and recycling of solid wastes. The strategy will lead to the enhancement of the ecological integrity of Asata River and its tributaries.