Recent research highlights alarming pollution levels in the Bonsa River, located in Tarkwa Nsuaem, Ghana, raising significant concerns for public health and the environment. Conducted by Gerheart Winfred Ashong from the Department of Chemistry at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, the study underscores the urgent need for interventions in water quality management in the region.
The study reveals that anthropogenic activities, particularly illegal mining, open defecation, and inadequate waste management, have severely compromised the river’s water quality. The findings show that key parameters such as turbidity, dissolved oxygen, and concentrations of toxic elements like lead, mercury, and arsenic exceed recommended limits. “Our analysis indicates that the Bonsa River is not only acidic but also presents a high risk of water-related diseases, particularly for children,” Ashong stated. The research indicates that children face a higher chronic daily exposure to these toxic elements compared to adults, highlighting a critical public health issue.
The Water Quality Index (WQI) assessment ranged from 3484% to 10,525%, categorizing the river as unsuitable for domestic, irrigation, and industrial use. This raises significant implications for local agriculture, commerce, and community health. The cumulative carcinogenic risk identified in the study exceeds acceptable thresholds, indicating a pressing need for strategic interventions in water management and sanitation practices.
Ashong’s work employs multivariate statistical analyses to identify the sources and transport mechanisms of contaminants in the river. “Understanding the pollution sources is vital for developing targeted strategies to mitigate these risks,” he emphasized. The study not only provides benchmark data for ongoing monitoring but also emphasizes the need for collaboration among stakeholders in the water, sanitation, and drainage sectors to enhance water quality and protect the ecosystem.
The implications of this research extend beyond local communities; they resonate with investors and policymakers focused on sustainable development. As Ghana grapples with water scarcity and security issues, the findings could inform future investments in water treatment technologies and infrastructure improvements. With the right interventions, there is potential for significant commercial opportunities in the water sector, especially in developing sustainable solutions to address pollution and enhance water quality.
Published in ‘Environmental Challenges’, this research serves as a critical call to action for both local and national authorities. By prioritizing water quality management and ecological health, there is an opportunity to safeguard not only the Bonsa River but also the communities that depend on it for their livelihoods. For more information on Ashong’s work, visit lead_author_affiliation.
