Environmental Impact and Physico-Chemical Analysis of Flood Water Intrusion in Domestic Boreholes and Well Water Quality in Isoko North Local Government Area and Environs in Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

Environmental impact and water quality characteristics of flood water intrusion in domestic boreholes and well water quality were investigated with the view to determining the extent of pollution. Parameters such as physic-chemical, heavy metal and micro-biological content were tested for and their impact identified. This research was based on the hydro-geo-pollution cycle as these chemical elements return back to man eventually through the process of bio-accumulation. The water samples from boreholes and wells had high levels of dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, and heavy metals, particularly Pb²⁺ and Fe⁺, according to a physico-chemical examination. Analysis was made possible by mapping the GPS-measured locations of the fifteen sample sites onto the topography plan of the research region. WHO and NSDWQ, responsible for drinking water standards were contrasted with findings to determine any differences. The water sample has a "VI" grade on the Heavy Metal Index calculation scale, indicating a "Seriously Affected" water distribution mechanism, due to a substantial amount of heavy metals, especially Pb²⁺ and Fe²⁺.The study shows that in some areas, the flood water intrusion for physico-chemical parameters is predominant as evident in some of the samples as against others. This means therefore, that the flood water influences the physic-chemical, heavy metal and micro-biological concentrations of the groundwater quality of the affected areas, either through direct inflow into the water supply system, or through the process of elluviation.