Assessment of Water Treatment Quality at the Brikama Water Treatment Plant, Gambia

Samba Camara, Bakary Ndow, Lamin F. Barrow, Buba Bah, Lamin M. Ceesay

Abstract: Aim: This study assessed the physico-chemical and bacteriological quality parameters of treated water from the Brikama Public Water Treatment plant, specifically post-aeration, chlorination, and during its temporal storage at the plant prior to distribution to consumers. Method: Physico-chemical and bacteriological data were acquired from a review of the plant operational water quality monitoring records from January to December of 2022. A key informant interviews was used to elicit information on plant operations from the management. Results: The mean Electrical Conductivity (EC=30 ?S/cm), Residual Chlorine (RCl2= 0.3 mg/l), and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS= 20 mg/l) of the quality of the water was within the limits based on WHO standards. However, the mean Temperature (30 ?C), Total Coliform count (TC=2 cfu/100 ml), and Hydrogen Potential (pH=6.1) of the water quality were not in line with the same standards. Conclusions and Recommendations: This study assessed critical water quality treatment infrastructural and operational deficiencies at the Brikama public water treatment plant in The Gambia. While some parameters meet WHO standards, other important parameters such as Temperature, Total Coliform count, and pH remain subpar, thus the increased risk of water-borne or related diseases from use of such water. It is therefore recommended that further water treatment alternatives at the plant level or at the household level should be implemented. In addition, water treatment and distribution infrastructural system maintenance or improvements, and the implementation of a comprehensive Water Quality Data Information System including public education must be enhanced to improving water safety standards and protecting community health.

Keywords: Water Treatment, Residual chlorine, Coliform, Gambia