Physicochemical properties, microbial indicators, and heavy metal risk profiling of groundwater quality near a dumpsite in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

Groundwater is essential for drinking and domestic use.  However, its proximity to improperly managed dumpsites make it highly vulnerable to contamination from leachate. This study evaluates the quality of groundwater from wells and boreholes near a dumpsite in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria, where groundwater is heavily relied upon. pH and electrical conductivity, microbial contamination, and selected heavy metal concentrations were analyzed. All samples were acidic (pH <6), with well samples exhibiting consistently higher electrical conductivity and microbial contamination exceeding WHO safety thresholds.  Lead concentrations in well water sample B (0.028 mg/L) and cadmium in sample C (0.007 mg/L) exceeded WHO permissible limits. The single factor pollution index (Pi), degree of contamination (Cd), heavy metal evaluation index (HEI), and heavy metal toxicity load (HMTL) highlighted the severity of contamination in the well water samples and the hidden toxicity risk in boreholes.  These findings reveal that proximity to dumpsite activities adversely affects groundwater sources. This calls for the urgent need for improved waste management practices and regular monitoring to mitigate groundwater pollution and protect public health.

Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 61(1), 19-30, 2026