Point source pollution quantification and source characterisation in surface water

Quantification and source characterisation are very important for regulatory, management, and treatment purposes. The aim of this study is to quantify and characterise point source pollution of the Awetu River and its impact on the river quality. The quantitative research gap in the study area and the rapid change in the river basin are motivating factors for this study. Forty water samples were collected from 14 sampling locations. Physico-chemical and bacteriological water quality parameters were analysed. The findings of this study show that the highest and lowest quantitative impact of point sources was recorded in S13 and S11, respectively. These point sources are categorised into five categories, namely, tributary stream (54%), hotels and cafeterias (20%), hospitals (13%), small-scale industry (4%), and car washes (3%). Tributary streams contribute more than 50%. The Dololo tributary is the most contributing source for bacteriological pollution. The quantitative method used in this study is important since it fills the study gap in the quantitative quantification of point source pollution, and it briefly describes the impacts of each parameter and point source pollution, supporting stakeholders to take necessary measures to prevent water pollution. The study indicates the high negative impact of point sources generally, and the tributary stream particularly, on the Awetu River.