EFFECTS OF LOCAL DYEING ACTIVITIES ON GROUNDWATER QUALITY IN KANO METROPOLIS, KANO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the effects of dyeing activities on groundwater quality in selected areas of Kano Metropolis. Three hand-dug wells and three boreholes were purposively selected based on their proximity to the dyeing sites and frequency of use. The sampling points were designated as BH1, BH2, BH3, HDW1, HDW2, and HDW3. The concentrations of physicochemical parameters, like temperature (T^oC), pH, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), were measured with the aid of calibrated thermometer, the Hanna instrument H1 2020 model, Turbidity with data laggings spectrophotometer CDR/2400model, Alkalinity, Chloride (Cl), Sulphate (SO⁴⁺), while Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Cadmium (Cd), and Chromium (Cr) was done using the Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (PerkinElmer PinAAcle 900H model. The results revealed that the levels of physicochemical parameters - temperature, pH, and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)- were high compared to the maximum permissible limits of 29 °C, 7, and 500mg/l set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON). The average concentrations of Cadmium (Cd) and Chromium (Cr)exceeded the maximum permissible limits of 0.01 mg/L and 0.003 mg/L, respectively, as defined by both WHO and SON. The elevated concentrations of Cadmium (Cd) and Chromium (Cr) may be attributed to the leaching of these heavy metals into the groundwater from nearby dyeing activities and waste disposal practices. This indicates that the water has been contaminated with Cadmium (Cd) and Chromium (Cr), rendering it unsafe for consumption. Furthermore, the results revealed a significant variation in the physicochemical parameters between hand-dug well water and borehole water. In conclusion, the water poses a potential health risk. It is imperative to address this issue promptly to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals relying on these water sources.