Comparative analysis of water quality in Lokoja metropolis for drinking and agricultural purposes

Abstract

The quality and suitability of different water sources within Lokoja metropolis for drinking and irrigation purposes has been evaluated. A total of twelve (12) water samples from surface and subsurface water from selected points within Lokoja metropolis were analyzed for their physical and chemical parameters. Results indicate high concentrations of Fe, Pb and Cd in surface water whereas Sewage has high concentrations in total dissolved solid, Fe, Pb, Cd, NO3-and SO42- species. The Hydrochemical facies study indicate that the surface water belongs to HCO3-SO4 and HCO3-SO4-NO3 type while the groundwater is classified into Ca-HCO3, Ca-Na-HCO3 and HCO3.This indicates cation exchange between groundwater and recently recharged meteoric water. It is recommended that proper waste disposal management be enforced to maintain the quality of the groundwater in the study area.

Keywords: Lokoja, wastes, water quality, water type