ASSESSMENT OF HEAVY METALS CONCENTRATION IN EFFLUENT RELEASED FROM INDUSTRIES IN CHALLAWA RIVER, KANO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Abstract Industrialization plays a crucial role in economic development, contributing to job creation, technological advancements, and overall economic growth. However, rapid industrialization often leads to environmental degradation. Industrial activities are major contributors to environmental pollution, particularly through the discharge of untreated or inadequately treated industrial effluents, which led to significant environmental challenges in the area. The Challawa River, which receives waste from the industrial estate, is a primary source of water for irrigation and, in some cases, for domestic use. Consequently, there is a heightened risk of heavy metal contamination affecting soil and water quality, posing potential threats to agriculture and public health. This study assessed the concentration of selected heavy metals—Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), Copper (Cu), Lead (Pb), and Zinc (Zn) in effluent samples released from the industries in Challawa Industrial Area of Kano State, Nigeria. The water effluent samples were collected from three distinct sites, prepared and analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) after nitric acid (HNO3) digestion. The results showed critically elevated levels of Cd (0.076 mg/L), Cr (22.07 mg/L), and Pb (1.770 mg/L), significantly exceeding WHO (2017) and NESREA (2011) permissible limits, thereby posing serious risks to environmental and public health. In contrast, Cu and Zn were within the WHO and NESREA permissible limits. These findings highlight the urgent need for regulatory enforcement, research, improved industrial wastewater treatment, and public health awareness.

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