Determination of Water Quality for Ground Water Near Municipal Dumpsite in Ibadan Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

Access to clean drinking water is crucial for human health and survival. In vicinities near municipal dumpsites, ensuring groundwater quality is especially vital to safeguard the ecosystem and human health. This study utilized the Entropy Weighted Water Quality Index (EWQI), a novel assessment tool, to evaluate groundwater near the Awotan dumpsite in southwestern Nigeria. Forty-five groundwater samples were collected during rainy and dry seasons and explored for groundwater quality using EWQI. The physicochemical parameters fall within permissible limits for domestic purposes during both seasons. Nonetheless, 2% of the samples surpassed the recommended nitrate limit of 45 mg/L, and all samples had iron levels above the 0.3 mg/L threshold. The calculated EWQI values for these samples ranged from 20 to 528, with 2% deemed excellent, 16% good, 51% medium, 18% poor and 13% extremely poor in terms of water quality for domestic use. The spatial variability in water quality levels means that there are localised impacts of the dumpsite and thus there is need for targeted management strategies. We recommend the government undertake sustainable retrofitting to enhance landfill design, incorporating an efficient leachate collection system to lessen groundwater pollution. Additionally, nearby residents should implement water treatment methods to improve water quality and minimize health risks.