Assessment of stream quality and health risks in Indonesian river systems: A social analysis and water quality index approach

The study began by characterizing the physical and chemical parameters of the Palma, Pekan Kuala, and Dosi Valley rivers flowing around Blankahan Village. It also analyzed questionnaires and interviews with the community regarding the condition of the primary water source for residents. It was found that the Palma River was categorized into class II and Pekan Kuala and Dosi Valley into class III due to poor river flow conditions by the quality standards of Government Regulation No. 22 of 2021. Furthermore, the presence of microplastic compounds was identified, namely microplastics of the type of polyethylene (PE) bottles with polypropylene (PP) caps found most in the river, and the content of metal elements Fe, Pb, and Mn, which are pretty dominating. Then, the results of statistical tests indicate that there is no statistically significant difference in the average perception among the four age groups, where all dominant age groups assess that river water quality is inadequate and can adversely affect health. The results of thematization interviews and related agencies stated that several health problems indicated due to the use of polluted river water, such as dermatitis, skin diseases, and diarrhea, continue to increase. Some communities still use river water sources to meet household needs. So, more sustainable efforts are needed to overcome the problem of dirty river flow.