Assessment of Water and Sediment of El Qalyubia Main Drain, East Delta, Egypt

Water pollution is of great concern due to environmental and health impacts. Chemical and biological quality of wastewater may be affected by anthropocentric activities such as industrial, urban, and agricultural activities. El Qalyubia drain is responsible for transporting polluted water from irrigation runoff and domestic and industrial sewage. Objective of this study was to assess the quality of both water and sediment throughout summer and winter (2022 & 2023). Water and sediment samples were obtained from eight locations alongside a drainage system and were analyzed for various chemical and microbial parameters. The findings were then evaluated against the recognized standard for wastewater. The findings differed among different locations due to types of waste generated from various activities occurring near El Qalyubia drain. Study indicated that certain chemical and biological components including total solids, total suspended solids, dissolved sodium percentage, organic pollution index, comprehensive pollution index, pollution factor, hydrocarbons, and phenol exceeded recommended limits for wastewater. However, other parameters such as total dissolved solids, pH, EC, chloride, magnesium (total hardness and Pathogenic indicators) were found to be within acceptable standards. According to water and sediment quality index, industrial, urban, and agricultural activities have been shown to have an impact on water and sediments. As a result, it is essential to treat wastewater to eliminate pollutants in order to safeguard the environment and public health. This study is crucial as it directly contributes to achieving clean Water and Sanitation by improving water quality, reducing pollution, and ensuring sustainable water management for all.