Physicochemical And Microbiological Analysis Of Water From Umuokwu River In Umudike Ikwuano Local Government Area, Abia State.

ABSTRACT

Streams, rivers and water bodies are known to pollution problems from improper waste and management systems. In this study the physicochemical and microbiological assessment of Umuokwu River, in UmudikeIkwuano Local Government Area of Abia State was carried out. An autoanalizer and cultural based techniques was used to determine the physicochemical and microbiological quality of water samples from Umuokwuriver. The results show the presence of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella species, Shigella species and Pseudomonas species. Physicochemical analysis showed the presence of total solids (37mg/l), Chloride (48mg/l), Carbondioxide (14mg/ml), Cadmium (0.019mg/l), Vinyl chloride (Nil), Magnesium (0.018mg/ml), Iron (Nil), Lead (0.152mg/l), dissolved solids (37mg/l); had a total hardness of (0.042mg/l),pH of (4.45 mg/l),total alkalinity (22mg/l) and was clear and odourless. The results show that Umuokwu River is unfit for human consumption. Therefore, I recommend that both governments at all levels and even individuals should try as much as possible to ensure use of properly treated river waters and management of waste disposal.