ASSESSMENT OF GROUNDWATER QUALITY IN A TYPICAL URBAN SETTLEMENT IN SOUTHEASTERN NIGERIA

Access to clean and potable water has remained a great problem to most urban settlements in Nigeria. A wide range of water problems face individuals residing around Enugu municipality. These problems include, contamination problem, unsustainable use of groundwater and water scarcity. The aim of this research paper is to investigate the levels of some physico- chemical and bacteriological concentrations in different underground wells at different locations within Enugu municipality, with a view of identifying the most contaminated areas. Sources and degree of contamination were also examined using some parameters such as nutrients types and contamination load concentration.Water samples collected from underground wells indicated that Abakpa, Achara and Awkunanaw areas are more contaminated than other areas such as Ogui, Obiagu and Asata. The investigation indicated a highly localized contamination pattern closely related with two pollution sources (sewage and drainage patterns). The resulting groundwater deterioration is linked to the population density in the area. This research shows the much needed awareness on the part of environmental health workers and local residents on the implication of poor sanitation and dangers inherent in using contaminated groundwater for domestic purposes. All land use activities capable of contaminating the water should be properly controlled.