THE PHYSIOCHEMICAL AND MICROBIOLOGICAL QUALITY OF GROUNDWATER AROUND ABATTOIR IN IKPOBA HILL, EDO STATE

ABSTRACT

This research focused on assessing the impact of abattoir activities on groundwater quality in Government abattoir situated in Ikpoba Hill, Oredo Local Government Area. In the study physiochemical properties and microbiological characteristics of Groundwater within the vicinity of the Government abattoir in Ikpoba Hill was investigated. Physiochemical parameters, heavy metals, and microbiological counts were analyzed. Notably, the pH levels of Groundwater samples from "Well A" (within the abattoir premises) were found to be 5.76, while "Well B" (located 1000 meters away) exhibited a higher pH of 6.39. Both pH levels fell within the WHO and NSDWQ standard ranges of 6.5-8.5, indicating overall neutrality. However, "Well B" displayed elevated electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, and turbidity levels, potentially indicating pollution from abattoir activities. The presence of bacteria in Groundwater samples was discerned through microbiological assessments. "Well B" demonstrated higher counts of total heterotrophic bacteria (180 log10 cfu/100ml) compared to "Well A" (154 log10 cfu/100ml), potentially indicating contamination near the abattoir. Bacterial isolates from Groundwater samples displayed varying degrees of antibiotic resistance, with Escherichia coli exhibiting susceptibility to some antibiotics and resistance to others. The Multiple Antibiotic Resistant (MAR) index was used to gauge the level of multi-drug resistance. This research underscores the tangible impact of abattoir activities on Groundwater quality, as evidenced by disparities in physiochemical parameters and heightened microbial counts near the abattoir. The findings made emphasized the urgent need for stringent water quality management and adherence to established standards. To protect public health, it is imperative to implement measures that ameliorate Groundwater quality in proximity to abattoirs. Furthermore, ongoing monitoring and comprehensive sanitation and hygiene initiatives are essential to improving overall public health within the study area.