Investigation Of Physicochemical and Bacteriological Characteristics Of Water Samples From Irigu River Meru South, Kenya

Abstract

Physicochemical and bacteriological parameter levels of river Irigu were investigated during wet and dry season in order to assess the degree of pollution .The results obtained were compared with WHO standards for drinking water. The physicochemical parameters analyzed were in compliance with the WHO standards except pH, turbidity, phosphorous, iron, manganese, Pb and Al. The values of MPN of coliform organisms /100 ml and E.Coli/100 ml were above the recommended values by WHO. The water from Irigu is not safe for domestic use and requires purification. There is need for awareness programs to educate local villagers to safeguard the river.