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Abstract
In this study, the mean levels of anion and metals in “Hora” natural mineral water and soil were determined. Accordingly, the levels of N–NH3, Cl−, N–NO3−, SO42−, Mg, and Ca in water were not exceeding the World Health Organization (WHO) drinking water guideline values for humans and the levels of N–NO3−, SO42−, and Ca were also far below the Canadian Ministers of Health (CMH) guideline values for livestock. The levels of Al, Mn, Zn, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Mo were above the WHO guideline values, while majority of the trace metals were not exceeding the maximum permissible value for livestock except for Ni and Co. Among the trace metals found in the soil, Mn and Pb were found to be higher compared to the recommended value (40 mg/kg) by the Ethiopian guideline. The drinking water quality index (DWQI) was calculated to be 67.6 based on 21 important quality parameters.
Public Interest Statement
Natural mineral waters may be distinguished from ordinary drinking water by their purity at source and their constant level of minerals. In addition, natural mineral water has beneficial medical and therapeutic effects. However, it is more prone to contamination mainly from anthropogenic activities such as agriculture and urbanization. Therefore, there is a need to examine its quality periodically. This study aims to investigate physicochemical characteristics of “Hora” natural mineral water, which is located in Western Ethiopia. This study reports that Hora mineral water was contaminated with salts and trace metals which could affect both human and animal health. These might be attributed to the utilization of old galvanized plumbing systems and natural sources such as the geological formations through which the ground water flows. Therefore, measures should be taken to improve the quality of drinking water through either replacement of the old pipes or treatment of the water beforehand.
Notes
1. Natural mineral water having salty test and very attractive by cattle.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Eyobel Mulugeta
Tibebu Alemu, Eyobel Mulugeta, and Miresa Tadese have spent together as a member of a research group for couple of years mainly focusing on physicochemical characterization of drinking water using different analytical techniques. Our research group has equipped with the state-of-the-art analytical instruments which are capable of determining trace level of water pollutants. Besides, method development and statistical data analysis are also main components of our research. In addition, the authors have the experience with pollution prevention measures and environmental protection agency compliance standards at national and international levels. In wider context, the research group has been working in treatment of drinking water using locally available materials, specifically using adsorption method in continuous mode.