تقييم جودة المياه للاستخدامات البشرية في التجمع السكني لمنطقة بئر الغنم

Water pollution stands as one of the most critical environmental issues in Libya, significantly contributing to the degradation of water quality and posing substantial risks to both human health and the environment. This study aims to assess the suitability of water for human use in the residential area of Bir Al-Ghanam. This area has experienced elevated humidity levels in certain neighborhoods an issue that may negatively influence water quality. The research involved analyzing the physical, chemical, and biological properties of 12 water samples collected from the area, including groundwater wells and household underground storage tanks. The results compared against national and international drinking water standards. The findings revealed that most water samples did not meet these standards, rendering them unsuitable for human consumption. Elevated levels of total dissolved solids (TDS), ranging from 1984 to 3302 mg/L, and high electrical conductivity values, ranging from 3100 to 5160 μS/cm, were observed both exceeding permissible limits for drinking water. While the pH values (7.0–8.0) were within acceptable ranges, biological analysis showed contamination in five samples with pathogenic bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus sp., and Klebsiella spp., indicating possible sewage infiltration. These findings highlight the urgent need for intervention to ensure the safety and quality of water in the residential area and to prevent the spread of waterborne diseases. Keywords: Groundwater, physical and chemical properties, biological tests, groundwater pollution, standard specifications, Bir Al-Ghanam area.