Physicochemical Characteristics, Heavy Metal Pollution, and Microbial Safety of Drinking Water Sources in Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State, Nigeria

Abstract

Access to microbiologically and chemically safe drinking water remains a critical public health challenge in many semi-arid communities of northern Nigeria. This study evaluated the physicochemical characteristics, heavy metal contamination, and microbial quality of groundwater sources in three locations Darawa, Miami, and Bayan Gidan Radio within Dutsin-Ma metropolis, Katsina State, Nigeria. Nine borehole water samples were collected and analysed using standard procedures recommended by the American Public Health Association (APHA, 2017). Physicochemical parameters  including pH, temperature, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity, dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), nitrate, and sulphate  were determined using calibrated field and laboratory instruments. Concentrations of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and copper (Cu) were quantified using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). Microbial quality was assessed by detecting Escherichia coli and total coliform bacteria using selective culture media. Results revealed notable spatial variations in water quality across the study areas. All samples exceeded World Health Organization (WHO) permissible limits for turbidity, lead, and cadmium, signifying potential long-term public health risks. Copper concentrations remained within acceptable limits in all locations. Microbial analysis detected E. coli and total coliforms in samples from Miami and Bayan Gidan Radio, suggesting faecal contamination, while Darawa samples showed no detectable microbial contamination. The co-occurrence of toxic heavy metals and microbial contaminants in several locations presents a compounded public health risk. Continuous water quality monitoring, adequate treatment interventions, and improved sanitation infrastructure are strongly recommended to ensure safe drinking water provision in Dutsin-Ma metropolis.