Physico-Chemical and Microbial Assessment of Some Well Water From Mista-Ali Town, Bassa LGA, Plateau State-Nigeria

Abstract

The Physico-chemical and Microbial assessment of well water in Mista-Ali were carried out to determine its suitability for domestic consumption. Samples were collected from eight wells in duplicate and analyzed using standard methods. The results revealed the physical parameters of the well water as colourless, odourless, tasteless, with total solids (240-370mg/L), Total suspended solids (280-320 mg/L) and Total dissolved solids (195-240mg/L). The chemical `parameter showed that the well has pH(6.9-7.3) conductivity (2.0x102 -7.0x102μmhos/cm), alkalinity(12-28mg/L),Chloride (10-28 mg/L), Total hardness (180-320mg/L), Sulphate (280-300mg/L), and Nitrate (7.70-8.20mg/L) . Arsenic and zinc were not detected while the following metals were detected with the following concentrations Pb (0.003-0.005), Fe (0.120-0.890),Mn (0.002-0.029), Ca (20.00-220.00), Cu (0.002-0.006), Cu (0.002-0.006), Cr (0.001-0.008), Ni (0.004-0.011), K (2.24-9.84), Mg (15.60-18.80). The physical, chemical and microbial assessment results were within the permissible standard for portable water. The well water in Mista-Ali can be used for domestic purposes and recommended that the water be analyzed atleast once every year to check for contamination. There should also be State Agency that would license well water to maintain high hygienic conditions.