Content uploaded by Mostafa A. Elbahnasawy
Author content
All content in this area was uploaded by Mostafa A. Elbahnasawy on Mar 12, 2015
Content may be subject to copyright.
Middle-East Journal of Scientific Research 12 (4): 413-423, 2012
ISSN 1990-9233
© IDOSI Publications, 2012
DOI: 10.5829/idosi.mejsr.2012.12.4.1694
Corresponding Author: Safaa M. Ezzat,Central Laboratory for Environmental Quality Monitoring (CLEQM),
National Water Research Center (NWRC), Cairo, Egypt.
413
Water Quality Assessment of River Nile at Rosetta Branch:
Impact of Drains Discharge
Safaa M. Ezzat, Hesham M. Mahdy, Mervat A. Abo-State,
12 3
Essam H. Abd El Shakour and Mostafa A. El-Bahnasawy
22
Central Laboratory for Environmental Quality Monitoring (CLEQM),
1
National Water Research Center (NWRC), Cairo, Egypt
Botany and Microbiology Department,
2
Faculty of Science (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
National Centre for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT),
3
Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
Abstract: River Nile is the main source of drinking water in Egypt. Unfortunately, it receives heavy load of
industrial, agricultural and domestic wastes from several sources. The aim of the present study is to examine
the water quality of about 120 km in River Nile at Rosetta branch and five main drains located on its sides,
through several physico-chemical and bacteriological analyses. Results obtained from two seasons trips
(summer 2010 and winter 2011) revealed that the water quality along studied area in Rosetta branch is obviously
influenced by drains discharge. High concentrations of NH , total dissolved solids (TDS), electric conductivity
3
(EC), biological oxygen demand (BOD), total alkalinity, turbidity and recognizable depletion in dissolved oxygen
(DO) were recorded. Pollution from total and fecal coliforms as well as fecal streptococci exceeding permissible
limits pointed out that agricultural and sewage wastes are the key factors in this environmental problem,
particularly in winter season. The calculated water quality index (WQI) supported the analytical data and the
correlation coefficient matrix between water quality pairs recorded several positive and negative significant
relationships. The gradual improvement recognized at the end of the branch especially in summer season is
attributed most probably to self-purification and dilution concepts. The study recommended treating
wastewater prior to discharge or reuse as well as regular and constant monitoring for River Nile to mitigate
health problems outbreaks or any aquatic ecosystem disorders.
Key words: River Nile Rosetta branch Delta region Water quality Drains discharge Pollution
Physico-chemical and bacteriological analyses Egypt
INTRODUCTION Barrage, 30 km upstream the sea, which releases excess
River Nile travels along Egypt for about 950 km the aquatic environment of this branch receives more than
starting from downstream High Aswan Dam to upstream 3 million cubic meters daily of untreated or partially
Delta Barrage, where it divides into two branches Rosetta treated domestic and industrial wastes and in addition to
and Damietta branches each of which runs separately to agricultural drainage water [2]. Rosetta branch water
the Mediterranean Sea, forming the Delta region between serves for a wide range of functions including agricultural,
both branches. Rosetta branch represents the main industrial and domestic water supply, fisheries and
freshwater stream that extends northwards for about 239 recreation. Unfortunately this branch is impacted by the
km on the western boundary of the Nile Delta from agricultural drains located along its sides and by the
Egypt's Delta Barrage [1]. Rosetta branch has an average industrial companies at Kafr El-Zayat city. The drains
width of 180 m and depth from 2 to 4 m. It ends at Edfina are EL-Rahawy, Sabal, El-Tahreer, Zaweit El-Bahr and
water to the Mediterranean Sea. It is estimated that
Middle-East J. Sci. Res., 12 (4): 413-423, 2012
414
Tala. These agricultural drains receive also domestic water subsurface layer (at depth 50 cm) in stopper polyethylene
from fifty five towns and villages distributed along the plastic bottles. All samples collected for either
branch. The industrial outfalls are El-Maliya, Mobidat and physico-chemical or bacteriological examinations were
Salt and Soda companies which are discharging directly stored in an iced cooler box and delivered immediately to
at the east bank of the branch. These two sources of the laboratory for analyses.
pollution potentially affect and deteriorate its quality of
water [3, 4]. Physico-Chemical Analyses: Physical and chemical
The aim of this study is to examine the water quality analyses were carried out according to Standard
of River Nile at Rosetta branch through several Methods for Examination of Water and Wastewater [5].
physico-chemical and bacteriological analyses to Field parameters (temperature, pH, electric conductivity
evaluate how drains discharge may influence water (EC), dissolved oxygen (DO) and total dissolved solids
quality. The correlations between different tested (TDS)) were measured in-situ using multi-probe system,
parameters were also discussed. model Hydralab-Surveyor and rechecked in laboratory.
MATERIALS AND METHODS HACH, model 16800. Ammonia (NH ) was measured by
Study Area: The area of our study extended about attached to bench-top Ion analyser, ORION model 940.
120 km in Rosetta branch, starting from upstream Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) was determined by
El-Rahawy drain up to downstream of Tala drain as ORION BOD fast respiratory system, model 890.
shown in Fig. 1. Fifteen sites were chosen, five at the Major anions (chloride-Cl , nitrite-NO , nitrate-NO ,
drains outfalls (El-Rahawy, Sabal, El-Tahreer, Zawiet phosphate-PO and sulfate-SO ) were measured using
El-Bahr and Tala) and ten in Rosetta branch Ion Chromatography (IC), model DX-500 chromatography
(five upstream and five downstream those drains) system, while carbonates-CO and bicarbonates-HCO
as shown in Table 1. Upstream drains sites are were detected by Ion Chromatography (IC-METROHM).
considered as reference points to evaluate deterioration The concentrations of major cations (calcium-Ca ,
impacts caused by drain discharge compared to the potassium-K , magnesium-Mg and sodium-Na ) and
downstreams. trace metals including aluminum (Al), arsenic (As),
Sampling Procedure: Water sampling was carried out copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), molybdenum
according to Standard Methods for Examination of Water (Mo), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), antimony (Sb), selenium (Se),
and Wastewater [5]. Water samples were collected in two tin (Sn), vanadium (V) and zinc (Zn) were measured also
different seasons (summer 2010 and winter 2011) from using the Inductively Coupled Plasma–Optical Emission
Rosetta branch of the River Nile and five drains located Spectrometry (ICP–OES) with Ultra Sonic Nebulizer
on its side. The water samples were collected from the (USN), model Perkin Elmer optima 3000.
Turbidity was measured by Nephelometric turbidity meter
3
ammonia selective electrode, ORION model 95-12
-- -
23
44
3- 2-
33
2- -
2+
+ 2+ +
barium (Ba), cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr),
Fig. 1: Map of sampling locations (Drains and Rosetta branch)
Middle-East J. Sci. Res., 12 (4): 413-423, 2012
415
Table 1: Location of the study sites in Rosetta branch, River Nile.
Site code Description Latitude (N) Longitude (E)
R Rosetta branch, upstream El-Rahawy drain 30°12'30.23"N 31° 2'02.21"E
1
R El-Rahawy drain outlet (left bank) 30°12'26.21"N 31° 1'58.90"E
R Rosetta branch, downstream El-Rahawy drain 30°12'25.41"N 31° 1'48.35"E
2
S Rosetta branch, upstream Sabal drain 30°31'57.94"N 30°50'53.20"E
1
S Sabal drain outlet (right bank) 30°32'13.47"N 30°51'07.09"E
S Rosetta branch, downstream Sabal drain 30°32'29.05"N 30°51'01.27"E
2
G Rosetta branch, upstream El-Tahreer drain 30°36'23.50"N 30°47'51.89"E
1
G El-Tahreer drain outlet (left bank) 30°36'24.68"N 30°47'48.92"E
G Rosetta branch, downstream El-Tahreer drain 30°36'28.90"N 30°47'47.49"E
2
Z Rosetta branch, upstream Zawiet El-Bahr drain 30°42'51.10"N 30°45'55.23"E
1
Z Zawiet El-Bahr drain outlet (left bank) 30°42'52.57"N 30°45'19.01"E
Z Rosetta branch, downstream Zawiet El-Bahr drain 30°43'09.26"N 30°45'39.53"E
2
T Rosetta branch, upstream Tala drain 30°48'58.19"N 30°48'37.60"E
1
T Tala drain outlet (right bank) 30°49'01.74"N 30°48'47.77"E
T Rosetta branch, downstream Tala drain 30°49'10.36"N 30°48'42.11"E
2
Bacteriological Analyses: All collected samples were RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
examined within 6 hours after collection according to
Standard Methods for Examination of Water and Results of physico-chemical and bacteriological
Wastewater [5]. Standard plate count (SPC) bacteria at analyses of water samples collected from drains and
22°C and 37°C were determined by pour plate method Rosetta branch during summer 2010 and winter 2011 were
No. 9215 B. For counting total coliforms (TC), fecal presented in Tables 2-8.
coliforms (FC) and fecal streptococci (FS), the membrane
filter technique was applied using a filtration system Physico-Chemical Characteristics of Water Samples
completed with stainless steel autoclavable manifold and Temperature: Temperature affects the speed of chemical
oil-free ‘‘Millipore’’ vacuum/pressure pump. Water reactions, the metabolic rate of organisms, as well as how
samples were filtered through sterile, surface gridded pollutants, parasites and other pathogens interact with
‘‘Sartorious’’ membrane of a pour size 0.45 µm and aquatic residents. As given in Tables 2&3, temperatures
diameter 47 mm, according to standard method No. 9222 changes ranged from 25.5°C to 27.7°C in drains outlets
B, 9222 D and 9230 C on M-Endo agar LES, M-Fc agar and and between 25°C to 28.3°C along Rosetta branch sites.
M-Enterococcus agar media, respectively. All media used Temperature change depends mainly on the climatic
were obtained in a dehydrated form, Difco-USA. Results conditions, sampling times and the number of sunshine
were recorded as colony forming unit (CFU/100ml) using hours. Air and water temperatures were positively
the following equation: correlated during studied seasons. This indicated that the
Total colonies /100 ml = (Counted colonies/ml of sample temperature, pointing to the absence of any source for
filtered) x 100 thermal water pollution. Correlation coefficient matrix
Water Quality Index: WQI is a 100 point scale that was positively correlated (r = 0.63). This is due to the increase
used to summarize results from different physico-chemical in temperature is usually accompanied by hydrolysis of
and bacteriological measurements using computer HCO and CO ions, leading to the appearance of
program created by the National Sanitation Foundation, hydroxyl (OH ) ions that increase pH value. Similar
USA. The used parameters are: DO, FC, pH, BOD, temp., relationship was reported by Toufeek and Korium [7].
PO , NO and turbidity. This index reduces huge
43
3- -
amounts of data to a single number thus ranking pH: The pH value represents the instantaneous hydrogen
water into one of five categories: very bad water (0-25), ion activity and affects biological and chemical
bad (25-50), medium (50-70), good (70-90) and excellent reactions in a water body. pH values for all collected water
(90-100). samples are within the permissible limits (Tables 2 and 3).
Statistical Analyses: Statistical analyses were established These values are always higher than 6.5 which are
applying regression coefficient according to Challerjee normally expected in raw water due to the presence of
and Machler [6]. carbonates or bicarbonates as reported by Friedl et al. [8].
water temperature is affected only by the ambient air
presented in Table 4 revealed that temperature and pH are
33
- 2-
-
Middle-East J. Sci. Res., 12 (4): 413-423, 2012
416
Table 2: Mean values of physico-chemical parameters of water samples collected from drains outlets in summer and winter seasons
Parameters Unit R S G Z T LAW 48/1982
ab
Temp. °C 25.5 26.2 27 27.5 27.7 5 degrees above normal
pH 7 7.5 7.65 7.65 7.65 7-8.5
EC µmohs/cm 1101 1368.5 803.5 864 1623 -c
TDS mg/l 705 876 514 553 1038 not exceed than 500
Tur. NTU 29 75 21 17.5 62.5 -
NH mg/l 22.3 7.9 1 0.95 5.15 not exceed than 0.5
3
DO mg/l 0.3 3.2 5.2 4.15 4.4 not less than 5
BOD mg/l 120 18 5.5 8 7 not exceed than 10
Cl mg/l 187.4 174.15 53.75 71.88 212.4 -
-
NO mg/l <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0 .2 <0 .2 -
2-
NO mg/l 106.8 52.15 40.6 41.125 55.65 not exceed than 45
3-
PO mg/l 4.76 <0.2 <0 .2 <0 .2 <0.2 not exceed than 1
43-
SO mg/l 108.1 215.45 106.75 143.4 320.2 not exceed than 200
42-
CO mg/l 0 0 0 0 0 -
32-
HCO mg/l 319 424.5 28 2.5 289 426.5 -
3-
Total alka. mg/l 319 424.5 282.5 289 426.5 50-200
Ca mg/l 50.88 72.38 67.815 49.475 72.12 -
2+
K mg/l 19.55 29.45 19 16.15 29.95 -
+
Mg mg/l 19.58 27.8 17.26 20.8 26.57 -
+2
Na mg/l 130 108 61 90 185 -
+
R, S, G, Z& T are location sites recorded in Fig. (1) and Table (1); LAW 48/1982: Egyptian Law for protection of the River Nile and water ways from
ab
pollution; -: No guideline available
c
Table 3: Mean values of physico-chemical parameters of water samples collected from Rosetta branch in summer and winter seasons
Parameters Unit R R S S G G Z Z T T LAW 48/1982
1212 1 21 212
ab
Temp. °C 25 25.5 25.9 25.8 26.55 27.05 27.55 27.65 27.9 28.3 5 degrees above normal
pH 7.65 7.5 7.5 7.75 7.45 7.6 7.9 7.8 7.9 7.85 7-8.5
EC µmohs/cm 375.5 626 516 803.5 520.5 632 553.5 537 555 560 -c
TDS mg/l 240 401 330 532 333 404.5 354.5 373 353.5 408 not exceed than 500
Tur. NTU 8 14.5 11 26.5 11 15.5 11 13.5 15 22 -
NH mg/l 3.6 8.35 4.6 5.5 3.15 2.25 1.25 1.9 4.35 4.75 not exceed than 0.5
3
DO mg/l 6.55 1.7 3.75 3.55 4.25 4.75 4.65 4.35 6.6 6.8 not less than 5
BOD mg/l 5 52.5 11 13 8.5 6.5 5.5 6.5 5.5 5 not exceed than 6
Cl mg/l 21.8 76.15 50.35 81.2 47.15 48.95 55.65 51.7 48.16 54.2 -
-
NO mg/l <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 -
2-
NO mg/l 5.71 37.15 19.1 26.2 20.1 27.1 20.15 21.8 13.35 17.8 not exceed than 45
3-
PO mg/l <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 -
43-
SO mg/l 30.4 56.7 41.1 83.8 44.95 75.3 45.3 49.4 47.65 49.45 not exceed than 200
42-
CO mg/l00000 00 000-
32-
HCO mg/l 151 192.5 187.5 236 177.5 219.5 204.5 180 192 197 -
3-
Total alka. mg/l 151 192.5 187.5 236 177.5 219.5 204.5 180 192 197 20-150
Ca mg/l 32.1 37.7 36.2 51.8 38.8 52.6 37.4 40.4 42.7 39 -
2+
K mg/l 6.5 9 8 9.5 8 9.5 8.5 11 8 8 -
+
Mg mg/l 16.25 18.85 18.2 21.3 16.1 21.5 17.75 15.95 16.05 19.05 -
2+
Na mg/l 30 62 45.5 79.5 46.5 50 48.5 44.5 47.5 53 -
+
R , R , S , S , G , G , Z , Z , T & T are location sites and recorded in Fig. (1) and Table (1); LAW 48/1982: Egyptian Law for protection of the River
ab
1 2121 2121 2
Nile and water ways from pollution; -: No guideline available.
c
Middle-East J. Sci. Res., 12 (4): 413-423, 2012
417
Table 4: Correlation coefficient matrix between water quality parameters
Variable Temp. pH EC TDS Tur. NH DO BOD Cl NO SO HCO Ca K Mg Na SPC TC FC FS
3 34 3
- - 2- - 2+ + 2+ +
Temp. 1
pH 0.63 1
EC 0.05 -0.34 1
TDS 0.08 -0.31 0.99 1
Tur. 0.04 -0.19 0.92 0.92 1
NH -0. 49 -0.79 0.38 0.38 0.29 1
3
DO 0.53 0.78 -0.40 -0.39 -0.24 -0.72 1
BOD -0.49 -0.81 0.26 0.26 0.10 0.95 -0.81 1
Cl -0.08 -0. 50 0.94 0.94 0.85 0.63 -0.56 0.51 1
-
NO -0. 22 -0.76 0.71 0.71 0.51 0.80 -0.7 6 0.82 0.82 1
3
-
SO 0.16 -0.17 0.96 0.96 0.88 0.15 -0.21 0. 04 0.84 0.54 1
4
2-
HCO 0.07 -0.32 0.98 0.98 0.92 0.32 -0.36 0.22 0.90 0.70 0.90 1
3
-
Ca 0.14 -0.17 0.87 0.86 0.83 0.11 -0.18 0.02 0.70 0.54 0.85 0.90 1
2+
K 0. 07 -0.33 0.96 0.95 0 .90 0.29 -0.33 0.20 0.87 0.68 0. 93 0.98 0.90 1
+
Mg 0.01 -0.19 0.87 0.87 0.90 0.47 -0.29 0.06 0.78 0.46 0.86 0.87 0.77 0. 80 1
2+
Na 0.04 0.04 0.96 0.95 0.79 0.93 -0.45 0.38 0.95 0.76 0.91 0.89 0.73 0.86 0.77 1
+
SPC - 0.4 -0.8 0.27 0.26 0.09 0.93 -0.7 0.97 0.51 0.83 0.04 0.23 0.04 0.21 0.03 0.39 1
TC -0.36 -0.78 0.27 0.26 0.08 0.92 -0.67 0.94 0.50 0.83 0.04 0.23 0.05 0.22 0.01 0.39 0.99 1
FC -0.36 -0.78 0.27 0.26 0.08 0.92 -0.66 0.94 0.50 0.83 0.04 0.23 0.05 0.22 0.01 0.39 0.99 0.99 1
FS -0.43 -0.79 0.25 0. 24 0.06 0.94 -0.74 0.99 0.49 0.82 0.04 0.20 0.01 0.19 0.01 0.37 0.99 0.97 0.97 1
Value 1: complete correlation; Positive value: correlated; Negative value: no correlation
Table 5: Mean values of trace metals concentrations of water samples collected from drains in summer and winter seasons (values in mg/l)
Parameters R S G Z T LAW 48/1982
Al 0.026 <0.005 0.006 0.005 <0.005 -
As <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 not to exceed 0.01
Ba 0.032 0.048 0.056 0.069 0.027 -
Cd 0.004 0.006 0.004 0.003 0.001 not to exceed 0.01
Co 0.023 0.008 0.017 0.037 0.031 -
Cr <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 not to exceed 0.01
Cu 0.024 0.1275 0.101 0.1745 0.21 not to exceed 1.0
Fe <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 0.27 not to exceed 1.0
Mn <0.006 <0.006 <0.006 <0.006 0.071 not to exceed 1.5
Mo <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 -
Ni 0.0255 0.003 0.0155 0.0255 0.003 -
Pb 0.024 0.015 0.007 0.007 0.024 not to exceed 0.05
Sb <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 -
Se <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 -
Sn <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 -
V 0.006 0.007 0.005 <0.005 0.01 -
Zn 0.026 0.042 0.019 0.075 0.074 not to exceed 1.0
Table 6: Mean values of trace metals concentrations of water samples collected from Rosetta branch in summer and winter seasons (values in mg/l)
Parameters R R S S G G Z Z T T LAW 48/1982
1 2 1 2 1 2 1 212
Al 0.029 0.014 0.009 0.007 0.006 0.009 0.007 0.007 0.005 0.006 -
As <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 not to exceed 0.05
Ba 0.042 0.05 0.042 0.048 0.065 0.0655 0.069 0.0915 0.015 0.0535 -
Cd 0.002 0.003 0.009 0.008 0.004 0.007 0.006 0.008 0.008 0.008 not to exceed 0.01
Co 0.011 0.03 0.04 0.024 0.03 0.009 0.02 0.026 0.032 0.033 -
Cr 0.035 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 0.048 <0.001 <0.001 0.029 <0.001 <0.001 not to exceed 0.05
Cu 0.1415 0.017 0.08 0.0885 0.068 0.1445 0.2235 0.127 0.1285 0.1465 not to exceed 1.0
Fe <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 not to exceed 1.0
Mn <0.006 <0.006 <0.006 <0.006 <0.006 <0.006 0.094 <0.006 <0.006 <0.006 not to exceed 0.5
Mo <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 -
Ni 0.0135 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.0095 0.0285 0.002 0.0275 0.015 0.005 -
Pb 0.006 0.009 0.021 0.021 0.004 0.021 0.022 <0.001 0.039 0.036 not to exceed 0.05
Sb <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 -
Se <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 not to exceed 0.01
Sn <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 -
V <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 -
Zn 0.029 0.0295 0.018 0.035 0.0145 0.041 0.02 0.03 0.0195 0.038 not to exceed 1.0
Middle-East J. Sci. Res., 12 (4): 413-423, 2012
418
Table 7: Mean values of bacteriological parameters of water samples collected from drains in summer and winter seasons
Parameters Unit R S G Z T LAW 48/1982
SPC at 22°C CFU/ml 861x10 335x10 2x10 49 x10 3450 -
4 33 2
SPC at 37°C CFU/ml 49x10 227x10 1550 42 x10 2950 -
53 2
TC CFU/100ml 389x10 55x10 46 x10 636x10 444x10 -
54 2 2 2
FC CFU/100ml 217x10 255x10 8 x10 245x10 16650 -
5 32 2
FS CFU/100ml 262x10 75x10 37 1380 1015 -
32
Table 8: Mean values of bacteriological parameters of water samples collected from Rosetta branch in summer and winter seasons
Parameters Unit R R S S G G Z Z T T LAW 48/1982
1212 1 2 121 2
SPC at 22°C CFU/ml 26 x10 87 x10 26 x10 21 x10 4150 2400 1850 2950 2500 2800 -
244 4
SPC at 37°C CFU/ml 1450 71 x10 20 x10 18 x10 3650 2000 1350 2400 2050 22 x10 -
444 2
TC CFU/100ml 15 x10 27 x10 37 x10 26 x10 25 x10 11 x10 51 x10 88 x10 11 x10 73 x10 -
354 4 3 3 223 2
FC CFU/100ml 9150 14 x10 14 x10 10 x10 3 x10 17 x10 650 6600 5500 1800 -
5 4 43 3
FS CFU/100ml 11 8 x10 365 60 80 45 16 35 78 58 -
4
The increase in pH in the rivers could be related to problems in case of illegal and unofficial drainage uses
photosynthesis and growth of aquatic plants, where (TDS should be <450 mg/l) as adopted from Ayres and
photosynthesis consumes CO leading to arise in the pH Westcott [10]. In parallel to these findings, TDS, EC and
2
values [9]. turbidity values revealed positively strong correlation to
Electric Conductivity: EC is a measure of the ability of and Korium [7] reported the same correlations.
water to carry electric current and it is sensitive to
variations in dissolved solids, mostly mineral salts. Turbidity: Turbidity is the measure of fine suspended
Throughout this study, EC values at drains outlets ranged matter in water, mostly caused by colloidal particles such
between 803.5-1623µmhos/cm. The maximum values were as clay, silt, non-living organic particulates, plankton and
recorded at Tala, Sabal and El-Rahawy drains and other microscopic organisms, in addition to suspended
decreased in Zawiet El-bahr and El-Tahreer drains outfalls organic and inorganic matter. The turbidity degree of
(Table 2). These high values might indicate that these stream water is an approximate measure of pollution
drains are receiving large quantities of land run off and/or intensity [12]. As given in Tables 2 and 3, turbidity values
industrial pollution and suggest potential irrigation ranged between 21-62.5 and 8-26.5 NTU in drains and
problems in case of illegal and unofficial drainage use due Rosetta branch, respectively. Increasing values from
to salinity hazards (EC should be <700 µmhos/cm) as up-stream to down-stream along the branch may be
adopted from Ayres and Westcott [10]. On the other attributed to drains discharge. Positive correlations were
hand, EC levels recorded in Rosetta branch ranged found between turbidity values and all studied parameters
between 375.5-803.5 µmhos/cm. The maximum EC values (Table 4). Turbidity values are negatively correlated with
are always recognized downstream the drains compared DO and pH (r = -0.24 & -0.19, respectively).
to the drains upstreams (Table 3). EC exhibited negative
correlation with DO (r = -0.4) and high positive Ammonia: Ammonia is a form of the nitrogenous
correlations with different studied parameters (Table 4). compounds present in nature and is essential for the
Our results are in accordance with Abdo et al. [11]. growth and reproduction of plants and animals. The
Total Dissolved Solids: TDS may be organic or inorganic matter and urea or is synthesized by industrial processes.
in nature and many are undesirable in water and Throughout this study, NH concentrations showed
produce displeasing color, tastes and odors and may variations both regionally and seasonally. The recorded
also exert osmotic pressure that affect aquatic life or mean values violate the permissible limits of law 48/1982
become carcinogenic especially halogenated compounds. (not to exceed 0.5 mg/l). Generally, NH concentrations
TDS concentrations for water samples collected from ranged from 1.25-8.35 mg/l in Rosetta branch (Table 3) and
Rosetta branch are almost within the permissible limits 1-22.3 mg/l in drains outfalls (Table 2). Increasing in
(Table 3). On contrast, TDS values in drains outfalls ammonia concentrations could be attributed to organic
exceeded the permissible limits where they ranged from pollution resulting from domestic sewage and fertilizers
514-1038 mg/l (Table 2). This reflects possible irrigation runoff [13].It is well known that, the toxicity of ammonia is
each other (r = +0.99) as illustrated in Table 4. Toufeek
ammonia ion is either released from proteinaceous organic
3
3
Middle-East J. Sci. Res., 12 (4): 413-423, 2012
419
pH dependent. The mean values of pH recorded in or urban discharges as reported by Chapman [13]. On the
present study ranged from 7 to 7.9 and NH other hand, BOD revealed high positive correlations with
3
concentrations from 1 to 22.3 mg/l. Our results exceeded all bacteriological parameters (r = +0.9) and a significant
the normal limits guidelines (1.27-3.88 mg/l) at pH (8.0-8.1) negative correlation to temperature (r = -0.49), pH and DO
cited by USEPA [14]. Statistical analysis showed high (r = -0.81) mainly due to removal of free oxygen by
positive correlations of NH with NO , BOD and bacteria during decomposition of organic matter which is
33
-
bacteriological parameters (r = +0.9), while negative usually accompanied by increase in BOD levels
correlation was observed with DO (Table 4). This confirms particularly in winter season.
the impact of sewage discharge and agricultural runoff in
this area. Major Anions: Data presented in Tables 2 and 3 indicated
Dissolved Oxygen: DO is required for the metabolism of at most studied sites. In drains outfalls, Cl concentrations
aerobic organisms and it influences organic range from 53.75-212.4 mg/l and SO range from
decomposition. DO is often used as an indicator of water 106.75-320.2 mg/l. On the other hand in Rosetta branch,
quality, such that high concentrations indicate good Cl ions range from 21.8-81.2 mg/l and SO ions range
water quality. Inadequate DO may contribute to from 30.4-83.8 mg/l. Some sites recorded high levels of
unfavourable environmental conditions in which aerobic chloride indicating that these points are receiving
bacteria are replaced by anaerobic ones leading to water sewage water and industrial effluent that rich in chloride
deterioration and disagreeable odors due to production of (Cl should be <50 mg/l) as adopted by Ravindra et al. [18].
gases (H S, NH and CH ) as reported by El-Sherbini et al. Concerning phosphate concentrations, all studied sites
23 4
[15]. DO concentrations showed variable results are <0.2 mg/l except in El-Rahawy drain outlet phosphate
according to site nature and extent of pollution. Almost all is 4.76 mg/l. These results are in agreement with limits of
water samples collected from drains outlets exceeded the law 48/1982 (1 mg/l). On the contrary, nitrate recorded
permissible limits of law 48/1982 (DO should not be less high levels that are above the permissible limits (45 mg/l)
than 5 mg/l) where they ranged from 0.3-5.2 mg/l (Table 2). in drains outfalls except in El-Tahreer and Zawiet El-Bahr
Depletion in DO might indicate high organic matter and outlet. Those higher values of nitrates are attributed to
nutrients load as reported by El-Gamel and Shafik [16]. the oxidation of ammonia (NH ) to nitrate (NO ) and
On the other hand, DO values for water samples collected nitrite (NO ) by aerobic bacteria in a process called
from Rosetta branch were variable and fluctuated between nitrification. On the other hand, NO recorded normal
1.7-6.8 mg/l as indicated in Table 3. The amount of DO values within the permissible limits in all studied sites
depends highly on temperature and salinity, such that along Rosetta branch. Carbonate ions could not be
oxygen is low in highly saline waters and vice versa and detected in all collected samples. Meanwhile, bicarbonate
its budget usually increases with decrease in temperature. values range from 282.5-426.5 mg/l at drains outfalls and
The depletion of DO could be anticipated to microbial the range fluctuated in Rosetta branch between 151-236
decomposition of the excessive organic matter discharged mg/l. Bicarbonate values revealed positive correlation
directly from the drains. with TC (r = +0.21). All values of total alkalinity in drains
Biological Oxygen Demand: BOD is a measure of the limits of law 48/1982 (200 mg/l for drains& 150 mg/l for
amount of dissolved oxygen removed from water by Rosetta branch) except in El-Rahawy upstream site (151
aerobic bacteria for their metabolic requirements during mg/l in two studied seasons). This clearly reflects the
the breakdown of organic matter [17]. Measurement of impact of drains discharge on Rosetta branch.
BOD is used to determine the level of organic pollution of
water. Data in Tables 2&3 recorded elevated BOD values Major Cations: All concentrations of major cations
in most investigated drains outfalls and sites in Rosetta (calcium Ca , potassium K , magnesium Mg and sodium
branch. The mean BOD values at drains outfalls range Na ) in water samples collected either form drains outfalls
from 5.5-120 mg/l, while in Rosetta branch, they range or selected sites along Rosetta branch, were found within
between 5-52.5 mg/l. Drains violating permissible limits the permissible limits. The mean values of the cations at
exceed BOD values of 10 mg/l, while along Rosetta branch different sites revealed that Na is the most abundant
the impacted sites are above 6 mg/l. Our results reflect element seasonally and regionally in all points followed
high level of organic matter load from sewage, industrial by Ca , K and Mg (Tables 2 and 3).
that normal concentrations of chloride and sulphate ions
-
4
2-
- 2-
4
-
43
+-
2
-
3
-
outfalls and Rosetta branch are above the permissible
2+ + 2+
+
+
2+ + 2+
Middle-East J. Sci. Res., 12 (4): 413-423, 2012
420
Trace Metals: Metals occur naturally in fresh water in low Rosetta branch range between 650 and 14x10 CFU/100 ml.
concentrations. They come from the weathering of rocks It seems that El-Tahreer is the only drain complying with
and soils in addition to industrial wastewater the international standard limits of Tebbutt [19], in which
discharges, sewage as well as from atmospheric FC count didn’t exceed 2000 CFU/100 ml in both seasons,
deposition. The mean values of trace metals concentra- unlike the case with the rest of studied drains. Meanwhile,
tions in the water samples collected during our study are about 70% of the sites along Rosetta branch throughout
presented in Tables 5& 6. Generally, results revealed that this study didn’t comply with the standard levels.
all concentrations of studied seventeen trace metals in Restricted limits for surface water intended for use as
drains outlets and Rosetta branch were found within the drinking water supply (200 CFU/100ml) indicate unsafe
permissible limits mentioned in the Egyptian law 48/1982. water from bacteriological point of view [20].
This reflects that the nature of pollution in our area of
study is mainly due to agricultural and sewage discharge. Fecal Streptococci: FS fluctuated between a maximum of
Bacteriological Characteristics of Water Samples: 37 CFU/100 ml at El-Tahreer drain. On the other hand,
Bacteriological characteristics are still the primary water FS counts in Rosetta branch ranged between 11 and
quality issue in any water resources especially those used 8x10 CFU/100ml. Generally, sites in drains and Rosetta
in drinking purposes. Bacteriological analyses for water branch exceeding 1000 CFU/100 ml were reported out of
samples collected from Rosetta branch and five main international standard limits [19]. The data revealed that
drains located on its sides (15 sites) in summer and winter there is a gradual increase in bacterial indicators counts
seasons are presented in Tables 7 and 8. (TC, FC& FS) from upstream to downstream, which might
Standard Plate Counts (SPC) Bacteria: SPC at 22°C and agrees with the results of Abdo [21] and Ezzat [22].
35°C in all collected water samples recorded high values Statistical analysis indicated highly positive significant
and varied regionally and seasonally, being the highest at correlation (r = +0.99) between different bacteriological
El-Rahawy drain outlet. SPC at drains outfalls range parameters (SPC, TC, FC and FS). The same results were
between 2×10 -861×10 CFU/ml (at 22°C) and between concluded by Heikal [23] who investigated the
34
1550-49×10 CFU/ml (at 37°C). In Rosetta branch, they bacteriological quality of Lake Nasser, main River Nile,
5
fluctuated between 1850-87×10 CFU/ml (at 22°C) and from Rosetta and Damietta as reported by branches as well as
4
1350-71×10 CFU/ml (at 37°C). River Nile waters at Damietta branch Sabae and Rabeh
4
Total Coliforms: TC densities varied between and physico-chemical parameters, positive strong
4600-389×10 CFU/100 ml (at drains outfalls) and correlation (r > 0.8) was observed with ammonia, BOD and
5
51×10 -27×10 CFU/100 ml (at Rosetta branch). nitrate, while intermediate positive correlation (r > 0.6) was
25
The highest count at drains outfalls and Rosetta branch recorded with EC, TDS, turbidity, cations and anions.
was recorded at El-Rahawy and its downstream. It is It is worth to mention that, there is a strong negative
worth to mention that, all monitored points in drains significant relationship between different bacterial
(except El-Tahreer drain in summer season) and more than indicators and DO (r = -0.78). This indicates that depletion
90% of all sites along Rosetta branch are out of the in DO is a strong evidence for bacterial water deterioration
international standard limits recommended by Tebbutt [25].
[19] (TC should not exceed 5000 CFU/100 ml). Much more
restricted limits have been reported by Cabelli [20] Water Quality Index (WQI): Results of WQI indicate that
who recommended a maximum total coliforms count of water quality is seasonally very bad in El-Rahawy drain
1000 CFU/100ml, particularly in surface water that are outlet and bad for most sites taken in this study (Table 9).
going to be used as drinking water supply. WQI is highly correlated with the previously mentioned
Fecal Coliforms: FC counts at the drains outfalls to mention that, the index calculations confirmed that the
fluctuated around a maximum of 217x10 CFU/100 ml at fecal coliform is a major contributor parameter in the
5
El- Rahawy drain and a minimum of 8x10 CFU/100 ml at indices calculations. The same observation was
2
El-Tahreer drain. On the other hand, FC counts in previously reported by El-Sherbini [26].
5
262x10 CFU/100 ml at El- Rahawy drain and a minimum of
3
4
be attributed to the drains discharge into the branch, this
[24]. Regarding the correlation between bacteriological
physico-chemical and bacteriological results. It is worth
Middle-East J. Sci. Res., 12 (4): 413-423, 2012
421
Table 9: Mean values of water quality index for collected water samples.
Site No. WQI Quality
R1 50.8 Medium
R 24.5 Very bad
R2 34.5 Bad
S1 40.3 Bad
S 33.3 Bad
S2 38.6 Bad
G1 43. 1 Bad
G 46.0 Bad
G2 42. 5 Bad
Z1 46.8 Bad
Z 41.0 Bad
Z2 44.0 Bad
T1 50.3 Medium
T 42.5 Bad
T2 50.2 Medium
According to the previously mentioned data from
both physico-chemical and bacteriological analyses, it is
clear that all drains selected in this study are seasonally
suffering from chemical and bacteriological pollution with
varying levels and varying nature, being maximum at
El-Rahawy, Sabal and Tala drains in which the levels of
pollution fluctuated between them from one measured
parameter to another. Fluctuation observed here is
probably due to combination of several factors including
industrial, agricultural and domestic waste discharge as
reported by Salah El-Din [27]. El-Rahawy drain has serious
impacts on the water quality of Rosetta branch due to its
high organic loads, which affect suitability of the branch
as a source of drinking water supply. This could be
attributed to high load of bacterial pollution and high
concentrations of NH , TDS, EC, turbidity, BOD, total
3
alkalinity and recognized depletion in DO as reported by
El Gammal and El Shazely [2]. The present findings are in
harmony with those reported by several authors who
reported that the highest levels of pollution detected
in Rosetta branch are always found at downstream
El-Rahawy and Sabal sites [3, 22, 23, 28, 29].
The gradual decrease in pollution levels along the branch
(from downstream El-Rahawy to downstream Tala drain)
could be interpreted in terms of ‘‘self-purification’’
phenomenon of streams as reported by Tebbutt [19]
and dilution effect concept concluded by Ezzat and El
Korashey [30].
It is worth to mention that, higher levels of
physico-chemical and bacteriological pollution indicators
were almost recorded in winter months compared to
summer months. This phenomenon may be attributed to
accumulation of wastes in drains which is usually
accompanied by winter closure that lowers water levels in
River Nile leading to an increase in pollutants load and a
decrease in dilution effects. Moreover, the relative
decrease in both temperature and pH values in winter
favours the increased mobilization of metals and
pollutants from sediment to water [31]. Meanwhile, during
summer season the increasing discharge at high flood
usually releases excess water through the main River
body and its two branches. The impact of releasing excess
water in most cases improves the quality in Rosetta
branch in summer months [9]. Here the water management
politics play a major role that affect the quality of water
resources in Egypt.
CONCLUSIONS
From the results of the present study it could be
concluded that the water quality along the studied area in
Rosetta branch (120 km) is remarkably influenced by
wastewater discharge from drains located on its sides
regarding both physico-chemical and bacteriological
characteristics. Agricultural and sewage wastes are the
key factors in this environmental problem. However,
self-purification and dilution concepts contributed to the
gradual improvement recognized at the end of the branch
particularly in summer season.
Recommendations: The results of this study
recommended enforcement of all articles of law 48/1982
regarding the protection of River Nile and waterways from
pollution as well as treating wastewater before discharge
or reuse. Monitoring of River Nile water regularly and
constantly should be followed up in order to record any
alteration in quality and mitigate outbreak of health
disorders and the detrimental impacts on the aquatic
ecosystem.
REFERENCES
1. Zaghloul, S. and H. Elwan, 2011. Water Quality
Deterioration of Middle Nile Delta Due to
Urbanization Expansion, Egypt. 15 International
th
Water Technology Conference, Alex., Egypt.
2. El Gammal, H.A. and H.S. El Shazely, 2008. Water
Quality Management Scenarios in Rosetta River Nile
branch, Egypt. 12 International Water Technology
th
Conference, Alex., Egypt, pp: 901-912.
3. Donia, N., 2005. Rosetta Branch Waste Load
Allocation Model. 19 International Water
th
Technology Conference, Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt,
pp: 277-288.
Middle-East J. Sci. Res., 12 (4): 413-423, 2012
422
4. Egyptian public Authority for Drainage Projects 16. El-Gamel, A. and Y. Shafik, 1985. A study on the
‘‘EPADP’’ and Drainage Research Institute (DRI) monitoring of pollutants discharging to the River Nile
2008. National Water Quality and Availability and their effect on River water quality. Water Qual.
Management NAWQAM, component 3000 final Bull., 10: 111-115.
technical report, National Water Research Center 17. Chapman, D., 1996. Water Quality Assessments: A
‘‘NWRC’’ and The Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Guide to the Use of Biota, Sediments and Water.
Administration ‘‘PFRA’’. Environmental monitoring, 2 ed. UNESCO, WHO
5. American Public Health Association (APHA). 2005. and UNEP. E & FN Spon, London UK.
Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and 18. Ravindra, K., R. Meenakshi and A. Kaushik, 2003.
Wastewater, 21 Ed. Washington, D.C. Seasonal variations in physico-chemical
st
6. Challerjee, S. and M. Machler, 1995. Robust characteristics of River Yamuna in Haryana and its
Regression: A Weighted Least Squares Approach, ecological best-designated use. J. Environ. Monit.,
Communications in Statistics. Theory and Methods, 5: 419-426.
26: 1381-1394. 19. Tebbutt, T., 1998. Principles of Water Quality
7. Toufeek, M.A. and M.A. Korium, 2009. Control. 5 Ed., Hallam University.
Physico-chemical characteristics of water quality 20. Cabelli, V., 1978. New standards for enteric bacteria
in Lake Nasser water. Global J. Environ. Res., In: Mitchell, R. ed. Water Pollution Microbiology, V2,
3(3): 141-148. pp: 233-271. John Wiley & Sons, New York.
8. Friedl, G., C. Teodoru and B. Wehrli, 2004. Is the iron 21. Abdo, M.H., 2002. Environmental Studies on Rosetta
gate I reservoir on the Danube River a sink for Branch and Some Chemical Applications on the Area
dissolved silica?. Biogeochemistry, 68: 21-32. Extended from El- Kanater El-Khyria to Kafr El-Zayat
9. Yousry, M., A. El-Sherbini, M. Heikal and T. Salem, City. Ph.D. Thesis. Fac. of Sci., Ain Shams Univ.,
2009. Suitability of water quality status of Rosetta Egypt.
branch for west Delta water conservation and 22. Ezzat, S.M., 2008. Role of Certain Botanical Extracts
irrigation rehabilitation project. Water Sci., 46: 47-60. against Bacterial Isolated from River Nile and
10. Ayers, R.S. and D.W. Westcott, 1985. Water quality Drainage Water. Ph.D. Thesis, Microbiology. Fac. of
for agriculture. In: FAO, Irrigation and Drainage, Sci., Ain Shams Univ., Egypt.
29(1): 1-83. 23. Heikal, M., 2000. Environmental Studies on Antibiotic
11. Abdo, M.H., S.Z. Sabae, B.M. Haroon, B.M. Refaat Resistant Bacteria in Some Locations along the River
and A.S. Mohammed, 2010. Physico-chemical Nile. Ph.D. Thesis, Environmental Biological Science.
characteristics, microbial assessment and antibiotic Institute of Environmental Studies and Researches,
susceptibility of pathogenic bacteria of Ismailia Ain Shams Univ., Egypt.
canal water, River Nile, Egypt. J. American Sci., 24. Sabae, S.Z. and S.A. Rabeh, 2007. Evaluation of the
6(5): 234-250. microbial quality of the River Nile waters at Damietta
12. Siliem, T.A.E., 1995. Primary productivity of the branch, Egypt. Egypt. J. of Aqu. Res., 33(1): 301-311.
Nile in barrage area. Menofiya J. Agric. Res., 25. Korium, M.A. and M.A. Toufeek, 2008. Studies of
20(4): 1687-1701. some physico-chemical characteristics of old Aswan
13. Chapman, D., 1992. Water Quality Assessments, 1 Dam reservoir and River Nile water at Aswan. Egypt.
st
Ed. Chapman and Hall, London and New York. J. Aqua. Res., 34: 149-167.3.
14. United State Environmental Protection Agency 26. El-Sherbini, A., 2007. Conclusive Approach for
(USEPA) 1999. National Recommended Water Quality I dentification of Water Quality Hazardous Sites in
Criteria. United State Environmental Protection the River Nile (part II). 2nd Environmental
Agency (EPA) 822-Z-99-001, 25. Engineering Conference, Fac. of Engineering, Ain
15. El-Sherbini, A.M., M.R. Bary, M.T. Heikal and Shams Univ., Egypt.
A. Hamdy, 1997. Environmental Impacts of Pollution 27. Salah El-Din, W., 2005. Multiplex PCR to Detect Some
Sources on Rosetta Branch Water Quality. V. II. Pathogenic Bacteria in Waters. M.Sc. Thesis,
Water Quality and Pollution Control. CIHEAM Int. Microbiology. Fac. of Girls for Arts, Sci. and
Conf. September, 22-26, Bari, Italy. Education, Ain Shams Univ., Egypt.
nd
th
Middle-East J. Sci. Res., 12 (4): 413-423, 2012
423
28. Ezzat, S.M., 2002. Microbial Flora and Chemical 30. Ezzat, S.M.and R.M. Elkorashy, 2012. Omar Bek drain
Composition of River Nile Water at Different Sites in water quality and its impact on Damietta Branch,
Egypt. M.Sc. Thesis, Microbiology. Fac. of Sci., Ain River Nile-Egypt. American-Eurasian J. Agric. &
Shams Univ., Egypt. Environ. Sci., 12(4): 472-483.
29. Zaky, S.F., 2007. Environmental Impacts of Drainage 31. Abdel-Satar, A.M., 1998. Distribution of Some
Water Reuse on Various Agricultural Components. A Elements in River Nile Environment at Great Cairo
Case Study on El-Rahawy Drain, Rosetta Branch. Region. Ph.D. Thesis, Fac. of Sci., Cairo Univ., Egypt.
M.Sc. Thesis, Agri. Environ. Sci. Institute of
Environmental Studies and Research, Ain Shams
Univ., Egypt.
