| Advances in Environmental Research Volume 2, Number 2, June 2013, pages 119-129 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.12989/aer.2013.2.2.119 | |
Impact of urbanization on Nwaorie and Otamiri Rivers in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria | |
Emmanuel T. Ogbomida and Chukwudi N. Emeribe
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| Abstract [Full Text] | |
| The study examined the effect of urbanization on the water quality of Nwaorie and Otamiri Rivers in Owerri metropolis, Imo State, South-East Nigeria. Water samples were collected from Nwaorie and Otamiri Rivers from four sampling stations up and down stream. Water parameters analyzed using standard procedures were: color, turbidity, temperature, pH, total hardness, total solids, metals (Iron and magnesium), anions (nitrate and ammonia) and Fecal coliform. Results showed increased levels of coloration, iron, ammonia, turbidity and fecal coliform which exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) permissible limits for drinking water. Increase in these parameters indicated influx of industrial effluent from the nearby industries and indiscriminate disposal of wastes at the bank of the rivers. Application of ANOVA showed various degree of variation in pollutants levels between the two rivers and at different sampling points. River Nwaorie was observed to be more impacted than River Otamiri. High values of iron observed from the study could be deleterious to human health if the river water is consumedwithout treatment. The study, therefore, recommended proper waste management and disposal as well aseffluent treatments in Owerri municipal against pollution of surface water. | |
| Key Words | |
| surface runoff; trace metals; urban catchment; diurnal variation; rain event | |
| Address | |
| Emmanuel T. Ogbomida: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Pollution Unit, National Centre for Energy and Environment, Energy Commission of Nigeria, University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria; Chukwudi N. Emeribe: Environmental Pollution and Remediation unit of the National Centre for Energy and Environment, Energy Commission of Nigeria, University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria | |
