by Aymar Yaovi Bossa, Abimbola K. Jallal Dine Boko, Yira Yacouba and Jean Hounkpè
Original Research
Concerns related to the variability of hydrological extremes (flows) and their consequences require special attention in the management and use of water resources both globally and in Benin. This study evaluates the recent evolution of flows likely to lead to flooding in the Ouémé basin at the outlet of Bonou from indicators of hydrological extremes. The methodological approach focuses on the analysis of time series of flows from 1986 to 2016 based on several indicators and statistical tests of trend and break. The indicators include the annual maximum discharge (Qmax), the annual maximum of the three-day averages (Qmax3), the fifteen days average (Qmax15), of thirty-day average (Qmax30), etc. The Pettitt test application reveals no break in the series of Qmax3, Qmax15, Qmax30, and Qmax at 3 stations (Bétérou, Savè, Bonou). The Mann-Kendall test at the Bétérou and Savè stations does not reveal any significant trend in the series of flows. On the other hand, there is a downward trend in the Qmax, Qmax3, and Qmax7 series at the Bonou station. Indices such as the 95th and 99th percentiles were used respectively to characterize high and very extreme flows that could cause flooding. These indices could be used to monitor extreme flows that may cause socioeconomic and environmental damage. Given the persistence of floods, it is necessary to update the early warning system by taking into account the new indicators identified in this work to prevent and reduce vulnerability to floods.
American Journal of Water Resources. 2023, 11(3), 120-125. DOI: 10.12691/ajwr-11-3-5
Pub. Date: August 13, 2023
415 Views2 Downloads
by Sadia Islam Mou, Md. Tamjidul Ridwan, Sadhon Chandra Swarnokar and Khandoker Faiaz Ishtiak
Original Research
In southwest coastal Bangladesh, surface water is a crucial basis both for domestic and irrigation purposes. This study investigated the water quality of the Jhapjhapia River, Khulna, Bangladesh using the Water Quality Index (WQI). For many purposes like agriculture, fish farming, and household and industrial activities, surrounding people depend on these water sources. Hence, this study examined the physico-chemical attributes and Weighted Arithmetic Water Quality Index (WAWQI) of three (03) different stations, collected during the monsoon and winter seasons. Among the investigated parameters, ten (10) crucial parameters were considered for the evaluation of water quality. Throughout the research period, the pH value ranges from 7.65 to 7.79. From Station-1 to Station-3, the concentration of EC, TDS, and DO was steadily reduced (Station-1>Station-2>Station-3). The analytical results found that the water transparency ranged from 5 to 10 cm while BOD ranged from 1.85 to 2.71 mg/l and 1.79 to 2.75 mg/l in the monsoon and winter seasons respectively. The levels of total hardness varied from 95 mg/l to 160 mg/l and 130 mg/l to 225 mg/l whereas total alkalinity ranged from 108 to 140 mg/l throughout the monsoon and winter season. Similarly, Ca2+ value ranged from 24.71 to 28.05 mg/l and 34.74 mg/l to 42.01 mg/l and Mg2+ ranged from 10.93 to 6.07 mg/l and from 5.93 mg/l to 8.56 mg/l correspondingly. The overall WQI value is found between 51 to 75, demonstrating the status of water quality is poor (Grade-C), unhealthy for drinking without proper treatment though can be used for irrigation and industrial purposes till now. Therefore, this study seeks appropriate strategic initiatives and conservation measures with proper monitoring to stop the deterioration of the water quality for sustaining the health and livelihood of many people who depend on it.
American Journal of Water Resources. 2023, 11(3), 112-119. DOI: 10.12691/ajwr-11-3-4
Pub. Date: August 10, 2023
442 Views2 Downloads
by Michael Osezua, Shree Om Bade, Emmanuel Gyimah and Olusegun Stanley Tomomewo
Case Study
This case study examines the impacts of climate change on water resources at Lake Powell, USA, using a comprehensive methodology combining data analysis through regression and system dynamics modeling. Through regression analysis, historical data is analyzed to identify trends and relationships between climate change factors and their impact on water resources. A system dynamics model is then used to simulate reservoir dynamics illustrating the effects of inflow and outflow on water reservoir depletion. The results from both methods reveal the challenges of current water management regulations and policies to address the risks posed by climate change at Lake Powell. Therefore, this case study highlights the urgent need for sustainable water management policies at Lake Powell. Underscoring the seriousness of the problem overhaul of existing strategies, the research argues for proactive measures to mitigate the effects of climate change. The study provides policymakers and water resource agencies with significant insights and recommendations sustainable utilization of this essential resource.
American Journal of Water Resources. 2023, 11(3), 103-111. DOI: 10.12691/ajwr-11-3-3
Pub. Date: August 08, 2023
609 Views3 Downloads
by Hesham Mohamed Abdal-Salam Yehia and Said Mahmoud Said
Original Research
Public health is facing significant challenges due to the increasing pollution of global water sources, which makes the rapid detection and treatment of a wide range of contaminants difficult. This issue is particularly critical in rural areas where centralized water treatment systems and pipe infrastructure are not always feasible. Point-of-use (POU) water supply systems represent a cost-effective and energy-efficient solution to store, treat, and monitor the quality of water. However, currently available POU systems have limited success in dealing with the emerging portfolio of contaminants, especially those present at trace concentrations. Additionally, the site-to-site variation in contaminant species and concentrations requires versatile POU systems capable of detecting and treating contaminants and providing on-demand clean water. Silica nanoparticles offer one of the potential solutions for developing rapid and sensitive water purification processes and sensors due to their strong activity and selectivity toward chemical substrates. Recently, many enzyme-nanomaterial composites have been developed that enhance enzyme stability and activity and expand their functionality. This development facilitates the application of Silica nanoparticles in advanced POU systems.
American Journal of Water Resources. 2023, 11(3), 98-102. DOI: 10.12691/ajwr-11-3-2
Pub. Date: August 03, 2023
768 Views2 Downloads
by Mofor Nelson Alakeh, Mbene Kenneth, Njoyim Estella Buleng Tamungang, Nchofua Festus Biosengazeh and Nkemajen Eugene Asongafac
Original Research
This study investigated the quality of three main sources of water used in Nteingue community- a village in Santchou municipality of the Menoua division, West Region of Cameroon, in order to determine its suitability for domestic use following World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines. Inhabitants of this locality consume water from these sources without any prior treatment, which can result in health problems if the water sources are contaminated. Three water sources: a spring in Plantain market, a tap (harnessed spring) in Nteingue market, and an open well in Nteingue-Mbouteuc quarter were sampled in the dry and rainy seasons of 2022 and examined for organoleptic, physicochemical and bacteriological parameters using standard methods recommended by WHO. Water samples had acceptable organoleptic characteristics except for the spring in the rainy season which was clear with tiny dark debris. Results of physical parameters revealed moderately acidic to neutral waters (5.6-7.2) with low mineral content, dissolved solids and turbidity. All major ions were within the WHO guideline values. There were significant seasonal differences observed in the variations of the concentrations of HCO3- and K+ (p <0.05). The water sources were type in both seasons, which are typical of ground water resources. Sampled waters were also acceptable based on water quality indices, exception being the open well which had a poor quality index in the rainy season. Faecal coliforms and specific bacteria (Escherichia coli, Enterobacter, Streptococcus, Vibrio, Salmonella, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Shigella spp) were identified in all sampled waters, suggesting recent contamination of the sources by human or animal faeces. The sources were unfit for domestic use and thus, exposed the population to water-borne diseases such as typhoid, diarrhoea and dysentery. Hence, home treatment methods such as chlorination, filtration, and boiling should be implemented prior to consumption.
American Journal of Water Resources. 2023, 11(3), 88-97. DOI: 10.12691/ajwr-11-3-1
Pub. Date: July 28, 2023
485 Views6 Downloads