Inadequacy of stabilization ponds treatment as manifested by the effects of Khirbet es-Sumra effluent on the groundwater quality of the surrounding area
1991
Bannayan, H. (Jordan Univ., Amman (Jordan). Water Research and Study Centre)
Three wells lying downstream of the Kirbet es-Samra sewage treatment plant (KS) waste stabilization ponds, and two wells lying upstream of them were monitored. Historic results over the two past decades were used in evaluating of KS effluent on the groundwater resources of the area. Prior to 1985, the downstream wells were of high quality, but later the water started to deteriorate. An increases in all parameters was encountered, although initially, the increase in certain parameters was mild and due to overpumping of the well water. Later this increase continued at a much higher rate, although the water table in the area by some 20m with a variety of indications showing domestic wastewater pollution effects. Groundwater measurements indicated a recharge mouth in the KS area and along Wadi Dhuleil. Hence, it can be deducted that a source of inferior water quality is recharging the groundwater and causing this increase in parameters. Since no source of pollution other than KS is encountered in the area, and because the parameters in the groundwater increase towards the KS and Wadi Dhuleil, it can be deducted that the effluent from KS is polluting the groundwater and rendering it unsuitable for almost all purposes. Comparatively, the two sample wells taken upstream of KS showed a mild increase in the water quality parameters until 1981-82, due to overpumping of the well water. But due to several wet years, the water table rose and these values decreased, continuing at a constant level. Since the groundwater flow is in the direction of Wadi Dhuleil, the negative effect of KS on groundwater resources can be clearly seen. If not stopped, this continuous manipulation of the groundwater resources will further pollute the groundwater resources of the entire area
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