Effects of Urbanization on Groundwater Quality: A Case Study of Port-Harcourt, Southern Nigeria

Abstract

The impact of anthropogenic activities on groundwater quality along coastal aquifer in Port-Harcourt, due to growing rate of urbanization is of a great concern, Groundwater samples were collected from different parts of Port-Harcourt metropolis and analyzed for relevant physico-chemical and bacteriological parameters using standard field and laboratory techniques. The effect of urbanization on the groundwater quality is shown through the observed low pH (average 4.9), high nitrate, iron, manganese and copper in some locations in the area. The bacteriological investigation also indicates the high concentration of total coliform, which can be attributed to groundwater contamination via animal faeces. Water in the area is predominantly soft to moderately hard and is dominated by Calcium-Chloride water type indicating a marine source. The huge human activities in the area have degraded the groundwater resources and significant actions such as upgrading the sewage waste disposal system and strict sanitary system is recommended for the area.