Physicochemical and Microbiological Analysis of The Drinking Water at Urban Afghan Refugee Areas in Quetta

Abstract

Contamination of drinking water with microorganisms can cause waterborne illnesses that may lead to severe healthcare crises. Previous studies regarding the water quality of Quetta city reveal contamination levels that are way above the World Health Organization quality standards. Afghan refugees are one of the marginalized communities living in Pakistan. They have limited access to various facilities, including clean drinking water. Therefore, assessment of the water quality at Afghan refugee settlements of Quetta was a crucial study. The present study analyzes water samples from four Afghan refugee settlements in Quetta. A total of 20 water samples were collected from Mughalabad, Bashir Chowk, Hazara Town, and Satellite Town. Sixteen physicochemical parameters of water were analyzed, and four microbiological assays were performed. Taste and odor were unobjectionable for all samples; the color of 10 samples was objectionable; the pH of all samples was within the normal range (except one sample from Hazara Town); the maximum electro-conductivity recorded was 927 µS/cm (Bashir Chowk); turbidity values for 10 samples were higher than the normal range; and total dissolved solids were highest in the water samples from Satellite Town. The alkalinity level ranged between 1.4–3.3 mmol/L; Ca and Cl levels were within the acceptable range; HCO₃ was relatively lower in Hazara Town; CO₃ was zero; and hardness, Mg, K, Na, and SO₄ levels were satisfactory. All samples taken from the water sources were free of E. coli and fecal coliforms. However, 10 samples taken from water distributary pipelines, water cans, and household taps were positive for the presence of coliform bacteria, which is an indicator of the presence of pathogenic bacteria in the distributary system and household water storage containers. This study concludes that the water quality deteriorates upon traveling from the source to households. The study recommends a proper monitoring and regulation plan for the water distributary system to investigate the root cause of the contamination, strengthened sewage system management, installation of water filtration plants, and regular chlorination of water reservoirs in the localities. At the household level, the study recommends boiling water before consumption and disinfection of water cans and containers. This study indicates the undesirable living conditions of refugees as well as host communities residing in the area, and it could be further expanded for large-scale research as well as interventions in the field of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH).