Arega & al./ Appl. J. Envir. Eng. Sci.

6 N°3(2020) 291-309

Assesssment of downriver pollution profile of gondar city wastewater

and its influence on keha river

G . Arega

Department of Hydraulic and Water Resources Engineering, School of Civil and Hydraulic, Institute of
Technology, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia

Corresponding author. E-mail : genetiearega@yahoo.com

Received 21 Aug 2020, Revised 09 Sep 2020, Accepted 16 Sep 2020

Abstract
Population growth, disposal of liquid and solid waste to the river affect the pollution of the river.
Keha river is exposed to waste discharge from the city. The main purpose of this study was to assess
downriver pollution profile of Gondar city wastewater and its influence on keha river. A total of six
sampling sites were chosen. A total of 15 grab samples were collected for analysis. pH and
temperature value ranged from 7.10 - 8.55 and 17.2 - 25 (OC), respectively. Turbidity and TDS were
ranged from 17– 205 (NTU) and 404– 631 (mg/l), respectively. Electrical conductivity and TSS were
ranged from 712– 1550 (µS/cm) and 36.15 – 224.32 (mg/l), respectively. BOD5 and COD were
ranged from 6.22 – 20.66 (mg/l) and 17.7 – 44.5 (mg/l), respectively. Total kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN),
NH3-N, NO3-N and No2-N were ranged from 20 – 29.5 (mg/l), 0.78 – 2.00 (mg/l), 0.41 – 2.2 (mg/l)
and 0.06 – 0.58 (mg/l), respectively. Sulphate and Total Phosphate were also ranged from 0.33 - 0.89
(mg/l) and 4.05 – 9.26 (mg/l), respectively. Total Hardness level were ranged from 85 – 250 (mg/l as
CaCO3). There are environmental and health risk associated with the use of these water resources
therefore, it is recommended that proper management of solid and liquid waste before disposal to the
Keha river was mandatory.

Key words: Disposal, Impact, Mitigation, Pysico-chemical, Wastewater

1. Introduction
Water pollution is a serious environmental problem in the world. It is the degradation of the quality of
water that renders water unsuitable for its intended purpose. Anything which degrades the quality of
water is termed as pollutant. Water pollutants can be broadly classified as major categories namely
organic, inorganic, suspended solid and sediments, heavy metals, radioactive materials and heat [1].
Water pollution has an effect on oceans and inland water bodies. Most of our water resources are
gradually becoming polluted due to the addition of foreign materials from the surroundings. Rapid
urbanization and industrialization with improper environmental planning often lead to discharge of
industrial and sewage effluents into lakes [2].

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From spatial perspective, the sources of pollution can be divided as point and non-point sources. As
the name implies, point source pollution represents those activities where wastewater is routed directly
into receiving water bodies by, for example, discharge pipes, where they can be easily measured and
controlled. In contrast, non-point source pollution arises from a broad group of human activities for
which the pollutants have no obvious point of entry into receiving watercourses [3].
Wastewater is any water that has been adversely affected in quality by anthropogenic influence. It
comprises liquid waste discharged by domestic residences, commercial properties, industry, and/or
agriculture and can encompass a wide range of potential contaminants and concentrations. In the most
common usage, it refers to the municipal wastewater that contains a broad spectrum of contaminants
resulting from the mixing of wastewaters from different sources [4].

1.1 Statement of the problem

Municipal wastewater consists of a mixture of domestic wastewater, effluents from commercial and
industrial establishments and urban run-off [5]. Municipal wastewater effluent is a concern because of
its composition and the total volume discharged. A range of typical emerging contaminants are found
in municipal wastewater effluent discharged into environment. In addition to metal contaminants,
newly emerging contaminants such as pharmaceutical, personal care products, endocrine disrupting
compounds and brominated flame retardants are growing cause of concern [6].
Industrial effluents and domestic sewage contribute large quantities of nutrients and toxic substances
that have a number of adverse effects on the water bodies and the biota [7].
Surface and ground water are being polluted with different pollutants. Some pollutants are directly
discharged from industrial effluents and municipal sewage, and others come from polluted runoff in
urban and agricultural areas. This situation has been exacerbated as a result of the rapid growth of
population, increased urbanization and expansion of irrigation that more likely use different fertilizers,
pesticides and herbicides, and other modern agricultural practices as well as lack of environmental
regulations [8].
An estimated 90 % of wastewater in developing countries is still discharged directly into rivers and
rivers without any wastewater treatment or after retention period of sometime in stabilization ponds.
Such discharges are part of the reason why de-oxygenated dead zones are growing rapidly in the seas
and oceans [9]. Environmental pollution derived from domestic and industrial activities is the main
threat to the surface and groundwater qualities in Ethiopia [10].
A series of hygienic studies conducted in Gondar city demonstrated that poor service and uncollected
domestic refuse, often mix with human and animal excreta piles up on the streets or is dumped in
drainage system or surrounding areas. These pose not only a serious health risk to the population but
also lead considerable environmental degradation. Keha river is a fresh closed river playing an
important role in the lives of many people in the Gondar city. It serves for small scale vegetation
production by the communities surrounding it. It is influenced by human activities such as
industrialization and discharging of domestic and institutional sewages. Municipal wastewater of
Gondar city from seven kebeles directly discharged into the Keha River. The river which receives the
Municipal wastewater from the city is used for a variety of purposes like small scale cultivation of
vegetables for the community of Gondar. The indiscriminate disposal of this Municipal and

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institutional wastewater to river Keha can cause an impact on environmental condition in the river
.This is mainly because untreated wastewater usually contain other contaminants, nutrients mainly
nitrogen and phosphorus that can stimulate the growth of aquatic plant, which in turn result in
eutrophication problem to the river and also chemicals disposed from University of Gondar
compressive specialized hospital can affect the growth of aquatic life. The chemicals may also have a
tendency to pose growth of cultivation of vegetables. Therefore, studying the characteristics of
Municipal wastewater composition of Gondar city can provide baseline information in relation to the
impact of the effluent on the receiving river ecology.

1.2 Significance of the study

The outcome of this study point out the possible point of pollution those are responsible for the
observed water quality problem of the river. Moreover this study can be used as baseline information
about current status of municipal wastewater channel, Hospital wastewater channel and the river.
Furthermore the result of the this study can also be used by different researchers and policy makers,
environmental scientists, Ministry of Environment forest and climate change, Gondar water and
sewerage authority (AAWSA) and other stakeholders as up dated water quality monitoring data for
further regular monitoring programs.

1.3 Scope of the study

The study was restricted only those area which have influence on the water quality of Keha river. On
the north side of the Keha river the study began from Auto Parko Adebabay ends to joining point of
the river while, on south side of the Keha river the study start from University of Gondar compressive
specialized hospital exit ends to joining point of Keha river. The water quality work assessed in this
study is limited to the selected physical and chemical water quality parameters. Moreover, the water
samples taken were limited in number, space and time.

1.4 Objective of the Study

1.4.1 General Objective
 The main objective of this study was to assess downriver pollution profile of Gondar city
wastewater and its influence on keha river.
1.4.2 Specific Objectives
 To determine the downriver pollution profile of wastewater of Gondar City.
 To indicate possible impacts of Wastewater of Gondar City on water quality of the receiving
Keha river
 To recommend the possible mitigation methods of the Keha river.

1.5 Research questions

1. How to determine downriver pollution profile of wastewater of Gondar city?
2. How to indicate impacts of wastewater of Gondar city on water quality of Keha river?
3. How to recommend the mitigation ways to protect the water quality of Keha river?

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2. Materials and methods

2.1 Description of the Study Area
Gondar city is one of the three Metropolitan cities in Amhara National Regional State and a major
tourist destination of the country[11]. Gondar is located north of Lake Tana in the Lesser ‘Angereb
River’ and Southwest of the Semien Mountains. As described on figure 1 Gondar city has latitude and
longitude of 12°36' N & 37°28' E respectively with an elevation of 2133 meters above sea level.
Gondar is positioned in north western Ethiopia, at about 740 and 175 kilometers away from Addis
Ababa and ‘Bahir-Dar’ respectively. According to [12] the population projection of Gondar city is a
total of 390,644 (187,718 Men and 202,926 are Women). In terms of religion from the total population
84.2 %, 14.7 % and 1.1 % are Christian, Muslim and Protestant religion followers respectively.
Keha River which is a tributary to Megech River that drains into Lake Tana. Keha River is located
near Gondar university teaching hospital in the western part of Gondar and it is highly affected by
agricultural and domestic wastes.

Figure 1: Map of the study area

2.2 Sampling
Sampling six sites were selected from municipal wastewater channel, hospital wastewater channel and
on the river. Municipal wastewater of Gondar was selected as the focus for this study where attempts
were made to determine impact of the effluents from the municipality on Keha river. The study area
starts from Auto Parko Adebabay which situated at Northern part of the city and ends at central part by
joining to the river. And also on either side study area start from University of Gondar Compressive
specialized Hospital exit and ends at central part of the city by joining to the river. The sampling sites
were designated as S1 to S6 located on the map as shown in figure 2. According to the field studies
and surveys conducted along a municipal waste water channel in the study area, the potentially
polluted with high number of effluent (their exposure to municipal discharges) were selected as study
sites. As described on table 1, the storm channel of the city starts from a point called Auto Parko
Adebabayat upper river and at the downsteam the river which is a receiving water body and the total
distance of the study area is about 1.5 km along storm canal 0.01 km along the river totally 1.51 km on
either side. On either side wastewater of hospital starts from a point of Hospital exit at West side of

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river and at the downsteam the river which is a receiving water body and the total distance of the study
area is about 0.5 km along storm canal 0.01 km along the river totally 0.51 km on either side.

Table 1: Summary of the sampling sites along storm channel and on the river
Sampling Site area Description
Site 1 (S1) Auto-parko Adebaby The point where the municipal wastes
from Piyassa and Abajalew join sanitary
channel
Site 2 (S2) Aste Fasil bath and horse cage An additional municipal wastewater,
from Fechefetet and Fasildes, joining
points at the downstream, where at this
point a volume of wastewater is bigger
than site 1.
Site 3 (S3) At joining point of Keha river on East The point where the municipal waste of
side of river the city from East side join the Keha
river
Site 4 (S4) At jointing point of Keha river on Either side jointing point on University
hospital side Hospital side of the river.
Site 5 (S5) University of Gondar Compressive The point where municipal waste from
specialized Hospital fence exit University hospital and Yohannes join
the sanitary channel.
Site 6 (S6) on Keha river On downstream of keha river 85 meter
far from jointing point (S4 and S3).

The reason why the sample where taken on two side of the river is that both sides sanitary channel
disposal where towards Keha river. As tried to describe on figure 2, S3 and S4 where showed as
overlapped the sample where not taken from the same point, but on both side joint point sample where
taken 10 meter far from joint point on the river.

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Figure 2: Map of study area sample point

2.3 Data collection

2.3.1 Primary data collection
The samples were collected directly from different sampling locations along muncipal Wastewater
channel, hospital wastewater channel and on the river two times per month. Temperature, TDS, TSS,
PH, Turbidity and Electrical Conductivity were analyzed on field. Laboratory analysis of Total
Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Nitrate, Ammona, Sulphate, Total Phosphate and Total Hardness parameters were
done at Gondar city water supply and sewerage authority water quality laboratory and the rest BOD5
and COD were analyzed at University of Gondar Environmental laboratory. The samples kept in
refrigerator at 4 OC until analyze for parameters. From these study sites, physiochemical samples
collected for four times June 30/ 2019 to August 30/ 2019 at fifteen days gap. In general, sample
collection and handling procedure were performed according to the standard procedures recommended
by American Public Health Associations [13].

2.3.2 Secondary data collection

The existing solid and liquid waste management conditions of the study area were collected from
Gondar city administration office. Other secondary sources of information that was used include
books, journals, manuals, conference proceedings etc.

2.4 Study design

The study was conducted by field observation (observing the municipal wastewater channel, hospital
wastewater channel and Keha river), and laboratory analysis (experimental). Therefore, the study
design was both descriptive and experimental.
2.5 Sample Analysis

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Physico-Chemical Analysis Temperature and pH was analyzed using portable digital pH meter
(Jenway model- 370, England). The pH meter was calibrated just before analysis using PH 4.0 and PH
7.0. Total dissolved solids (TDS), Total Suspended Solids (TSS) and Electrical Conductivity were
analyzed using portable digital conductivity meter (CC-401, Poland). This instrument was also used to
cross check the temperature of the water samples. With regard to turbidity, it was measured using
portable microprocessor turbidity meter (H193703 ELE international, Hungary). Nitrate, Ammonia,
TKN, Sulphate and Total Phosphate were measured using HACH DR 2000 spectrophotometer
following HACH instructions. Total Hardness were measured using EDTA titration method. BOD5
and COD were analysied based APHA standard methods using closed reflux method.

2.6 Data analysis

The data analysis for all parameters was made by using SPSS version 16.0 and origin version 8.0
Software and excel program. SPSS was used to determine the Mean, Standard deviation and range of
the parameters. The P-value and F-value between different sample site were calculated by one way
ANOVA using Microsoft office excel 2007 program. One way ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) was
performed for statistically significant difference in the physico-chemical parameters between the six
sampling sites. Difference in mean values were accepted as being statistically significant if P < 0.05.

3. Results and discussions

3.1 Physico-chemical Parameters
3.1.1 Municipal Wastewater of Gondar City
The mean concentrations of the pollutants along the study area are given in Table-2. The concentration
of most pollutant increased from site 1 up to site site 3, jointing point of the river. While also on either
side, hospital up to Keha river, the concentration of pollutant was increasing up to jointing point. After
the pollutant were diluted to Keha river their concentrations are decreased, at site 6.
As described on table 2, pH and temperature of the study area during the study period with mean value
ranged from 7.31 + 0.21 - 8.23 + 0.32 and 19.5 + 2.3 - 22.5 + 2.5 (OC), respectively. Turbidity and
TDS concentration were with mean value ranged from 25 + 8 – 172 + 33 (NTU) and 432 + 28 – 611 +
20 (mg/l), respectively. Electrical conductivity and TSS were with mean value ranged from 812 + 100
– 1350 + 200 (µS/cm) and 48.65 + 12.5 – 162.52 + 61.8 (mg/l), respectively. BOD5 and COD
concentration were also found to be with mean value ranged from 8.52 + 2.3 – 18.25 + 2.41 (mg/l) and
20.1 + 2.4 – 40.2 + 4.3 (mg/l), respectively. The nitrogen compounds, Total kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN),
NH3-N, NO3-N and NO2-N concentration were with average value ranged from 21.4 + 1.4 – 28.1 + 1.4
(mg/l), 0.85 + 0.07 – 1.65 + 0.35 (mg/l), 0.61 + 0.21 – 1.85 + 0.35 (mg/l) and 0.11 + 0.05 – 0.42 +
0.16 (mg/l), respectively. Sulphate, total phosphate and total hardness concentration were also found
with the average value ranged from 0.43 + 0.13- 0.69 + 0.2 (mg/l), 6.15 + 2.1 – 8.13 + 1.13 (mg/l) and
115 + 30 – 220 + 30 (mg/l as CaCO3), respectively.

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Table 2: Physicochemical Characteristics of Municipal Wastewater of Gondar city (Concentrations

are in mg/l except for pH, temperature, turbidity and conductivity)
Variable Site 1 Site 2 Site 3 Site 4 Site 5 Site 6 F-value P-value
pH 7.54 + 0.31 7.31 + 0.21 7.72 + 0.4 8.19 + 0.3 7.88 + 0.31 8.23 + 0.32 6.03 0.023
Temp 20.2 + 2.1 19.5 + 2.3 21.5 + 1.5 22.5 + 2.5 20.4 + 1.4 21.8 + 2.0 1.43 0.49
Turbidity 154 + 30 172 + 33 85 + 20 28 + 10 165 + 20 25 + 8 31.52 3.01E-06
TDS 581 + 30 611 + 20 532 + 16 440 + 28 512 + 23 432 + 28 74.2 2.49E-06
EC 1120 + 150 1350 + 200 970 + 120 825 + 150 1026 + 134 812 + 100 16.35 0.018
TSS 145.8 + 41.5 162.52 + 61.8 92.45 + 24.5 54.1 + 15.4 125.71 + 31.25 48.65 + 12.5 11.88 0.0078
BOD 14.52 + 3.8 18.25 + 2.41 13.85 + 1.84 9.56 + 1.85 12.9 + 2.5 8.52 + 2.3 9.1 0.0059
COD 33.52 + 3.8 40.2 + 4.3 31.25 + 2.5 22.78 + 3.4 30.2 + 2.7 20.1 + 2.4 23.6 8.09E-05
TKN 25.6 + 1.2 29.5 + 1.4 27.3 + 1 23.5 + 1.5 23.2 + 1.4 22.8 + 1.4 3.11 0.00014
NH3-N 1.5 + 0.51 1.65 + 0.35 1.25 + 0.35 0.85 + 0.07 1.48 + 0.50 1.27 + 0.41 2.24 0.253
Nitrate 1.41 + 0.45 1.85 + 0.35 0.78 + 0.26 0.61 + 0.21 1.69 + 0.31 1.1 + 0.21 12 0.0019
Nitrite 0.32 + 0.15 0.28 + 0.12 0.18 + 0.1 0.11 + 0.05 0.42 + 0.16 0.24 + 0.12 3.71 0.103
Sulphate 0.52 + 0.14 0.46 + 0.12 0.43 + 0.13 0.41 + 0.18 0.69 + 0.2 0.54 + 0.18 1.89 0.363
Total -P 8.25 + 2.1 8.96 + 1.4 9.14 + 1.07 7.86 + 1.15 9.26 + 1.13 8.3 + 1.12 3.11 0.48
Total Hard 145 + 30 156 + 20 204 + 30 208 + 20 220 + 30 220 + 25 3.11 0.0054

3.1.2 pH
As described in figure 3, the mean pH concentration along wastewater channel of Gondar city down
river ranged from 7.31 + 0.21 - 8.23 + 0.32. The range is safe according to the standard sated by EPA
for drinking water or irrigation (5.5 - 9). The lowest mean pH measurement were recorded at site 2
(Aste Fasil bath and horse cage) and the highest mean pH measurement were recorded at site 6 (on
Keha river). Statistical analysis (ANOVA) showed that in the present study pH value was significantly
different among sites (P = 0.023, F = 6.03).
pH value
8,5
Site 1
8
Site 2
pH value

7,5 Site 3
Site 4
7
Site 5

6,5 Site 6
Sampling Site

Figure 3: Mean pH value of municipal wastewater of Gondar city

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3.1.3 Temperature
Temperature is the most important factor which influences the chemical and biological characteristics
of the aquatic system. As described on figure 4, mean temperatures recorded in sewer channel were in
the range of 19.5 + 2.3 - 22.5 + 2.5 (Oc). These values were found within the EPA standard range of
surface waters temperature, 0° C to 25° C. This could be described to the absence of big industries.
Because, industrial facilities are mainly responsible for temperature and pH changes in water bodies
through the release of heat and chemical laden effluents into watercourses [14]. The minimum
average temperature were recorded at site 2 (Aste Fasil bath and horse cage) while maximum average
temperature were record at site 4 (At jointing point of Keha river on hospital side). Statistical analysis
(ANOVA) showed that in the present study temperature value was not significantly different among
sites (P = 0.49, F = 0.96), because p-value was greater than 0.05.
23
Temperature
22 Site 1
Temperature (oc)

Site 2
21
Site 3
20 Site 4
Site 5
19
Site 6
18
Sampling site

Figure 4: Mean temperature of municipal wastewater of Gondar city

3.1.4 Turbidity
As described on figure 5, mean turbidity value at each six sampling sites of a storm channel of Gondar
city downriver and at the river ranged from 25 + 8 – 172 + 33 (NTU).

200 Turbidity
180
160
Site 1
140
Turbidity (NTU)

120 Site2
100 Site 3
80 Site 4
60 Site 5
40
Site 6
20
0
Sampling site

Figure 5. Mean turbidity Concentration of municipal wastewater of Gondar city

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The minimum mean turbidity value were recorded at site 4 (At jointing point of Keha river on hospital
side) while maximum mean turbidity value were recorded at site 2 (Aste Fasil bath and horse cage).
Turbidity is an indication of the clarity of a water; is as an optical property; presence of colloidal
particles. Turbidity can indicate that water may be contaminated with pathogens presenting human
health concerns [15]. Statistical analysis (ANOVA) showed that in the present study turbidity value
was significantly different among sites (P = 3.01*e-06, F = 28.3).

3.1.5 Total dissolved solid (TDS)

As summarized on figure 6, the average concentration of TDS of study area (in mg/L) was ranged
from 432 + 28 – 611 + 20. Total Dissolved solid (TDS) includes those materials dissolved in the
water, such as, bicarbonate, sulphate, phosphate, nitrate, calcium, magnesium, sodium, organic ions,
and other ions. These ions are important in sustaining aquatic life. However, high concentrations can
result in damage to organism’s cell [16]. The mean minimum TDS concentration was recorded at site
6 (on Keha river) while the mean maximum TDS concentration was recorded at site 2 (Aste Fasil bath
and horse cage). Statistical analysis (ANOVA) showed that in the present study TDS value was
significantly different among sites (P = 2.5*e-06, F = 29.3). The highest value of TDS visualised at site
2 was due to high amount of dissolved solids from different catchment of the city connected.

700
Total Dissolved Solid (TDS)
600
Site 1
500
Site 2
TDS (mg/l)

400
Site 3
300
Site 4
200 Site 5
100 Site 6

0
Sampling site

Figure 6: MeanTDS Concentration of municipal wastewater of Gondar city

3.1.6 Electrical Conductivity (EC)

Electrical conductivity is defined as the measure of waters ability to conduct an electrical current
through dissolved ions. These ions include sodium, calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, aluminum,
chloride, sulphide, carbonate and bicarbonate. So the conductivity increases not only with the increase
total dissolved solids but also water temperature [17]. As described on figure 7, the mean EC of sewer
channel of Gondar city ranged from 812 + 100 – 1350 + 200 (µS/cm). The mean maximum EC was
recorded at site 2 (Aste Fasil bath and horse cage) were as the mean minimum EC was recorded at site
6 (on Keha river). The statistical analysis (ANOVA) of EC result was significantly different (P =
0.017, F = 4.36). The maximum EC recorded at site 2 was due to occurrence of high ion
concentrations at that point.

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1600 Electrical conductivity (EC)

1400
1200 Site 1
1000 Site 2
Site 3
EC

800
600 Site 4
400 Site 5

200 Site 6

0
Sampling Site

Figure 7: Mean EC of municipal wastewater of Gondar city

3.1.7 Total suspended solids (TSS)

Total suspended solid content of water depends on the amount of suspended particle, soil and silt
which is directly related to turbidity of water. As summarized on figure 8, the present study showed
that the average value of TSS (in mg/L) ranged from 48.65 + 12.5 – 162.52 + 61.8. The mean
minimum TSS value was recorded at site 6 (on Keha river) while the mean maximum TSS value was
recorded at site 2 (Aste Fasil bath and horse cage). That implies high suspended particulate matter was
visualized at site 2. The statistical analysis (ANOVA) of TSS result was significantly different (P =
0.008, F = 5.49).

200 Total suspended solids (TSS)

Site 1
150
Site 2
TSS (mg/L)

100 Site 3
Site 4
50
Site 5
Site 6
0
Sampling Site

Figure 8: Mean TSS Concentration of municipal wastewater of Gondar city

3.1.8 Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD5)

As described on figure 9, the mean five day Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD5) (in mg/L) of Gondar
city sewer channel was ranged from 8.52 + 2.3 – 18.25 + 2.41. Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) is a
measure of the oxygen used by microorganisms to decompose organic compounds in a liter of
wastewater [18]. Natural sources of BOD in surface water include organic material from decaying
plants and animal waste. Human sources of BOD include faeces, urine, detergents, fat, oils and grease.
The discharge of waste with high level of BOD can cause water quality problems such as sever

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dissolved oxygen depilation and fish kill in receiving water bodies [19]. The highest mean value of
BOD5 was recorded at site 2 (Aste Fasil bath and horse cage) were as the lowest mean value of BOD5
was recorded at site 6 (on Keha river). The statistical analysis (ANOVA) of BOD5 result was
significantly different (P = 0.006, F = 5.83). The sources of BOD and COD in the river could be
agricultural organic wastes, human excrement, plant debris, animal manure and untreated municipal
sewage arising from various non-point sources [20].

20 Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD5)

18
16
Site 1
14
BOD5 (mg/L)

12 Site 2
10 Site 3
8 site 4
6 Site 5
4
Site 6
2
0
Sampling site

Figure 9: Mean BOD5 Concentration of municipal wastewater of Gondar city

3.1.9 Chemical oxygen Demand (COD)

As summarized on figure 10, the pollution profiles for COD (in mg/L) along wastewater channel
downriver ranged from 20.1 + 2.4 – 40.2 + 4.3. The COD result of sewer channel was as similar to
BOD5 concentration. That means the mean maximum and minimum concentration was recorded at site
2 (Aste Fasil bath and horse cage) and site 6 (on Keha river) respectively. The mean maximum value
of COD and BOD5 recorded at site 2 was resulted due to the presence of high organic and inorganic
matter at that site. The statistical analysis (ANOVA) of COD result was significantly different (P =
8.09*e-06, F = 15.1).

45 Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD)

40
35 Site 1
30 Site 2
COD (mg/L

25
Site 3
20
Site 4
15
10 Site 5
5 Site 6
0
Sampling site

Figure 10: Mean COD Concentration of municipal wastewater of Gondar city

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3.1.10 Nitrogen compounds

Nitrogen compounds like, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN), Ammonia (NH3-N), Nitrate (NO3-N) and
Nitrite (NO2-N) analysis was performed. As described on figure 11, the average concentration of
Nitrogen compounds (in mg/L), Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN), Ammonia (NH3-N), Nitrate (NO3-N)
and Nitrite (NO2-N) in sewer channel of Gondar city was ranged from 21.4 + 1.4 – 28.1 + 1.4 mg/l,
0.85 + 0.07 – 1.65 + 0.35 mg/l, 0.61 + 0.21 – 1.85 + 0.35 mg/l and 0.11 + 0.05 – 0.42 + 0.16 mg/l,
respectively. The mean maximum value of TKN, NH3-N and NO3-N were recorded at site 2 (Aste
Fasil bath and horse cage), but NO2-N was recorded at site 5 (Hospital fence exit). The reason why the
highest value of NO2-N recorded at site 5 was due to high amount of NO2-N effluent from hospital
was disposed to Keha river. The mean minimum value of NH3-N, NO3-N and NO2-N was recorded at
site 4 (jointing point on Hospital side), but the mean minimum value of TKN was recorded at site 6
(on Keha river). The statistical analysis of TKN and NO3-N were significantly different with P-value
0.00014 and 0.002, respectively and F-value 3.11 and 7.69, respectively. But, the statistical analysis of
NH3-N and NO2-N were not significantly different with P-value 0.26 and 0.11, respectively and F-
value 1.53 and 2.38, respectively, because their p-value were > 0.05.

35 2 Site 1
Site1
Ammonia Nitrogen (NH3-N)
30 Site 2
1,5
NH3-N (mg/L)

25
TKN (mg/l)

site2 Site 3
20
15 site3 1 Site 4
10 site4 Site 5
5 0,5
site5 Site 6
0
site6 0
Sampling Site
Sampling Point

2 0,5 Nitrite (NO2-N)

Nitrate (NO3-N)
Site 1 Site 1
0,4
1,5
Nitrate (mg/L)

Nitrire (mg/L)

Site 2 Site 2
0,3
1 Site 3 Site 3
0,2
Site 4 Site 4
0,5
Site 5 0,1 Site 5
0 Site 6 0 Site 6
Sampling Site Sampling Site

Figure 11: Mean TKN, NH3-N, NO3-N and NO2-N Concentration of municipal wastewater of Gondar
city

3.1.11 Sulphate (SO4 2-)

Figure 12 showed that, the current mean concentration of Sulphate in Gondar city sewer channel
ranged from 0.43 + 0.13- 0.69 + 0.2 (mg/l). This shows that Keha river has sulphate concentration
within the background concentration of most natural waters. The mean maximum Sulphate

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concentration was recorded at site 5 (At hospital fence exit) while minimum mean sulphate
concentration was recorded at site 4 (At jointing point of Keha river on hospital side). The reason
behind why such concentration sulphate were recorded at site 5 was due to high amount of Sulphate
content chemical was disposed from hospital. The statistical analysis of Sulphate result was not
significantly different (P = 0.37, F = 1.2), because the P-value was > 0.05.

0,8 Sulphate (SO4 2-)

Site 1
Sulphate (mg/L)

0,6
Site 2
0,4 Site 3
Site 4
0,2
Site 5
0 Site 6
Sampling Site

Figure 12: Mean Sulphate Concentration of municipal wastewater of Gondar city

3.1.12 Total Phosphate

It is a vital nutrient for all living things but, introduction of excessive phosphorus in form of
phosphates in aquatic environment can cause Eutrophcation. As summarized on figure 13, the mean
total phosphate concentration (in mg/L) of the study area was ranged from 6.15 + 2.1 – 8.13 + 1.13
(mg/l). The result showed there was concentration of total phosphate than most natural waters in Keha
river. The mean maximum concentration of total phosphate was recorded at site 5 (At hospital fence
exit) while the mean minimum concentration was recorded at site 1 (At Auto Parko Adebabay). The
statistical analysis of total phosphate result was not significantly different (P = 0.48, F = 3.11), because
the P-value was > 0.05.
As similar to sulphate concentration the maximum amount of phosphate concentration was also
recorded at site 5 this was due to high phosphate content chemical disposal from hospital.

9,5
Total Phosphate (mg/l)

9 site1
site2
8,5
site3
8 site4
7,5 site5
site6
7
Sampling Point

Figure 13: Mean Total Phosphate Concentration of municipal wastewater of Gondar

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3.1.13 Total Hardness levels

The mean total hardness levels of the study area 115 + 30 – 220 + 30 (in mg/l as CaCO3). As described
on figure 14, the mean maximum concentration of total hardness was recorded at site 5 (At hospital
fence exit) while the mean minimum concentration was recorded at site 1( At Auto Parko Adebabay).
This explains that at site 5, there were industrial activities taking place like Moha soft drink factory
and hospital effluents hence the increased value of hardness. Whereas at upstream of keha river, there
were no anthropogenic activities to raise the hardness. The statistical analysis of total hardness result
was significantly different (P = 0.0054, F = 3.11), because the P-value was < 0.05.

300

250
Total Hardness (mg/l)

Site1
200 site2
150 site3

100 site4
site5
50
site6
0
Sampling Point

Figure 14: Mean Total Hardness Concentration of municipal wastewater of Gondar city

3.2 The impacts of sewage disposal on water quality of the receiving Keha river
The pH, temperature and turbidity value of Keha river (site-6) were 8.23, 21.8 Oc and 25 NTU,
respectively. As try to describe above the pH value of Keha river was 8.23. The pH of most natural
waters is in the range of 6 - 8.5 [14]. Furthermore, it is inline with the pH ranges of the EPA guidelines
(6.5 – 8.5) given for fisheries and aquatic life. Therefore, Keha river is found to be within the natural
range of pH value. Based on EPA standards (5.5 - 9), only on behalf of pH value the Keha river was
also safe for drinking purpose. The pH of water affects the solubility if many toxic and nutritive
chemicals, which affects the availability of these substances to aquatic organisms. During the study
time the temperature condition of Keha river was 21.8 Oc. Based on [14], the temperature of Keha
river was similar in the range (0 – 30 Oc) with most natural water. According to EPA guidelines (<13
O
c) given for fisheries and aquatic life the Keha river temperature was not safe. The mean turbidity
value of Keha river was 25 NTU. The colloidal material which exert turbidity they may be harmful or
cause undesirable testes and odour. Disinfection of turbid water is difficult because of adsorptive
characteristic some colloid and the solids may partially shield organism from disinfectant. Turbidity
can indicate that water may be contaminated with pathogens presenting human health concerns [15].
Based on WHO turbidity does not comply with the drinking water standards. This indicates that
discharging such effluents devastate the receiving environment. Based on EPA standard the turbidity
of surface water given for aquatic life were < 5 NTU, but the turbidity of Keha river were beyond the
standard value. Therefore, in terms of turbidity Keha river was nor safe for aquatic life.

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The concentration of TDS, EC and TSS of Keha river recorded were 432 mg/l, 812 µS/cm and 48.65
mg/l, respectively. The range of mean values for TDS (< 450 mg/l) was within the recommended
limits for livestock drinking, agricultural irrigation and even human drinking. However, the
concentration of TSS is greatly above the recommended limits of the maintenance of aquatic life and
fisheries of Ethiopia (≤ 25 mg/l). The standard value of EC by WHO was < 700 µS/cm but, the EC
value of Keha river was beyond the standard. Therefore this value of EC affects the livestock drinking,
agricultural irrigation and even human drinking.
The concentration of BOD5 and COD in most unpolluted water bodies is less than 2 mg/l and 20 mg/l,
respectively [14]. However, the mean BOD5 and COD of Keha river (site-6) were 8.52 mg/l and 20.1
mg/l, respectively, which were beyond the limit. This values of BOD5 and COD implies that the river
have high concentration of organic and inorganic matters. The result indicated that the mean ranges of
BOD5 and COD in this study are by far greater implying serious organic pollution of the river making
it difficult for the survival of aquatic organisms and unfit for direct use. And also they may cause
adverse effect on aquatic organisms by depleting the dissolved oxygen of the water in the receiving
river.
The presence of nitrogen compounds in the river can also have an impact on the water quality of Keha
river. The concentration of nitrogen compounds like, TKN, NH3-N, NO3-N and NO2-N recorded were
14.5 mg/l, 1.27 mg/l, 1.1 mg/l and 0.24 mg/l, respectively. In unpolluted waters the level of nitrogen
compounds are usually less than 0.10 mg/l [14], but the concentration of all nitrogen compounds were
beyond this limit value. These higher levels of nutrients can be important contributors to the
eutrophication of the Lake. Thus, they can have significant environmental impacts such as algal
blooms and can restricting the use of water bodies for purposes such as recreation or drinking water
for human and animal use.
The Sulphate and Phosphate concentration of Keha river (site-6) were 0.54 mg/l and 2.87 mg/l,
respectively. Natural concentration of Phosphorus in most surface waters is within a range of 0.005--
0.02 mg/l and Sulphate (SO4 2-) ranging from 2 mg/l to 80mg/l [14]. This shows that Keha river has
sulphate concentration below the background concentration of most natural waters while the river has
elevated concentration of phosphate than most natural waters. However, when the concentration levels
of Sulphate in Keha river were compared against the standard guideline of Ethiopia, it was found that
the levels of these parameters are within the guideline for the maintenance of Fisheries and aquatic life
and human beings. While the level of Phosphate in Keha river beyond the standard, which implies it
have an impact on growth of fisheries and aquatic life, eutrophication, and human beings.

3.3 Mitigation methods of water qualities of Keha river

3.3.1 Community participation
As try to described previously the reason for contamination of Keha river were community
misunderstanding of the benefit of river and simply discharging of wastewater. Therefore, it is
mandatory taking training for community on how to protect water quality of Keha river and how to
discharge the waste water. On such way the community by themselves can protect the river.

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3.3.2 Waste water treatment

The quality of surface water within a region is governed by both natural processes (such as
precipitation rate, weathering processes and soil erosion) and anthropogenic effects (such as urban,
industrial and agricultural activities and the human exploitation of water resources) [21].
So as to protect Keha river from degradation, a municipal waste water treatment plant has to be
considered which possibly prevents the discharge of waste water in to the river, otherwise the death of
the river is inevitable through time. Therefore, economical and simple construction of waste water
treatment plants like, screen and sedimentation tank, on both sides of the study area were required.
For sustainable management of municipal wastewater, environmental protection agencies at different
level and other concerned administrative and/or non- governmental bodies should take strict as well as
technical measures. Enforcement of law and propagating environmental education to the community
with special target to those contributors of the present degradation could be one solution.

3.3.3 Solid waste management

Inappropriate disposal of solid waste can be contamination of surface and ground water through
leaching, soil contamination through direct waste contact, air pollution by burning of waste, spreading
of diseases by different vectors like birds, insects and rodents, or uncontrolled release of methane by
anaerobic decomposition of waste [22]. Solid wastes indiscriminately thrown resulted also in aesthetic
problems, nuisance, and pollution of land and water bodies of an area [23].
In order to prevent solid waste disposal to Keha river implementation of solid waste management
system is mandatory. If the community can implement solid waste management system nothing solid
waste will be disposed to the river. Also solid waste managements system has to be integrated among
the municipality, community and organizations working for the benefit of all.

4. Conclusions
Physico-chemical results from this study showed that most of the parameters measured were above the
provisional standards value set out by EPA and WHO. Keha river pollution profile was indicated for
turbidity, EC, TSS, BOD5, COD, total nitrogen, NH3-N, NO3-N, NO2-N, Sulphate and Phosphate,
were above the standard value. While levels of pH, water temperature and TDS studied in Keha river
were within permissible limit.
The contamination of Keha river with physic-chemicals could be due to simple disposal of liquid and
solid wastes, hospital waste disposal and misunderstanding of community towards protecting the river
from pollution.
Directly discharging municipal wastewater into the river are a cause for serious concern because of
human health, since many people use the stream for washing clothes, bathing and livestock drinking
purposes. Simple disposal of solid and liquid waste to the Keha river also affect the aesthetic condition
of Gondar city. It is generally observed that the lack of municipal wastewater treatment plant in the
town has caused the river to suffer from a serious pollution.
Proper disposal of municipal wastewater is primarily necessary to safeguard the environment from
heavy loads of pollutants and toxic substance.

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Acknowledgements
First of all, I would like to thank almighty GOD for being there in all my need. Also I would like to
thanks University of Gondar Compressive specialized Hospital, Gondar city water supply and
sewerage authority and water quality laboratory and University of Gondar Environmental laboratory
for their invaluable cooperation in providing me the necessary laboratory and material resources.
I owe much gratitude to all individuals and organizations who helped me in making this study
possible by sharing their experiences, resources, time and efforts.

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