Author: Zouera Sani

Co-Authors: Raphael Muamba Tshimanga, Oghenekaro Nelson Odume, Twaha Ali Basamba, Haddy Mbuyi Katshiatshia

Journal: Physics and Chemistry of the Earth

link : https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1474706524001451 

Abstract: Urban stream syndrome is a growing phenomenon in tropical part of the world. Urban rivers face significant challenges due to pollution induce by anthropogenic activities, exacerbated by population growth and industrialization. The main objective of this study is to develop a generic approach to balance water use and the protection of water quality in urban rivers. Water quality physico-chemical assessments were conducted during the dry and rainy seasons at various points along the N’Djili River and its tributaries. Anthropogenic activities in the surrounding areas were also analyzed to determine water uses from each sampling site. Sites were classified based on their pollution level using multivariate analysis and hierarchical classification into management classes. The water quality assessment results have shown a physico-chemical pollution of the urban rivers water, with the tributaries being the most polluted. Three main water uses were determined namely: industrial, agricultural, and domestic water uses. The sites were placed into distinct management classes based on their pollution level and the interventions needed to protect them. This study contributes valuable insights for protecting and enhancing urban river ecosystems. The approach developed in this study is useful as it can be applied elsewhere, forming the basis of management decision on urban river system protection.

Keywords: N’Djili River, Water use, Water pollution, Quality protection, Water management