Physico-chemical and bacteriological characteristics of well water in some selected residential areas within the Ajaokuta Housing Estate, Kogi State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assesses the physico-chemical and bacteriological characteristics of well water within some selected residential areas of the Ajaokuta Housing Estate (A- Racca-Foam, B- Borno, C- Kwara, D – Lagos, and E – Abuja Estates). Water samples (six samples per estate) were collected from thirty wells in the study area, and were analyzed for physicochemical and bacteriological properties using standard techniques, and the results compared with the World Health Organization (WHO) standards. The results indicated that some physico-chemical parameters were outside the WHO acceptable limits. Notably, iron and manganese and magnesium contents exceeded the WHO in the five selected area where samples were collected, with the highest concentration at 0.54, 1.0 and 60.0 mg/L, respectively. Total hardness and total alkalinity were also above the permissible limit of 100 mg/L in all samples. Bacteriological analysis showed elevated TVC (0 to 3.0 × 103 CFU/mL) and TCC (0 to 1,200 per 100mL) especially with samples in areas B, D and E, suggesting potential faecal contamination or inadequate well maintenance. The presence of pathogenic bacteria such as Salmonella sp., Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli, further re-emphasises the public health risks posed by the water samples. Statistical analysis showed no significant discrepancies in water quality across the different wells sampled. These findings suggest that well water in the study area may not be totally safe for consumption without adequate treatment. Hence, a regular and proper thermal or chemical treatment of well water in the study area is recommended to ensure safe drinking water for the community/environs and prevent waterborne diseases.