Heavy metal contamination in riverine systems: a comparative study of industrial vs. agricultural pollutants

At five places, ambient sediments and water specimens were taken from the highest polluted river to analyze the pollution patterns of eight contaminants. Five sites along the river were selected due to their susceptibility to contamination from adjacent industrial operations. The tracking information, geo-accumulation indicator (Igeo), contaminating factor (CF), modified contamination degree (mCd), pollutant load indicator (PLI), and metal indicator (MI) were employed to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of contamination with heavy metals (HM). Two monitoring locations adjacent to the discharge sites of the Nanzih Export Processor Zone (NEPZ) had the highest contamination levels. The peak contamination periods for surface waters and sediment tests were 2020 to 2025. The surface water exhibited indications of HM pollution, with mCd exceeding 1.8. The HM features of the sediment specimen across the five years were analogous. This indicated that the naturally occurring attenuation mechanism was insufficient, necessitating the implementation of treatment technologies to enhance sediment cleanliness. This investigation establishes a foundation for thorough risk evaluations and cohesive management plans for the river's surface sedimentation and water condition. It would improve the inclusivity of assessments about HM pollution in worldwide rivers.