EFFECT OF SEWAGE DISCHARGES IN THE CITY CENTRE OF DIWANIYAH ON THE QUALITY OF WATER IN SHATT AL-DIWANIYAH

Abstract

Untreated sewage discharges represent a major environmental concern over water quality, particularly in urban areas. This paper aims at determining the impact on the quality of Shatt al-Diwaniyah water brought about by how sewage is disposed of in Diwaniyah city. Twelve sampling sites in January and July 2024 were used for field surveys and laboratory analyses. The major contributors to water contamination in this region are ineffective sewage treatment, agricultural runoff, and industrial disposal. In general, a significant amount of pollutants, including electrical conductivity, turbidity, nitrates, and phosphates close to the locations where sewage leaves the treatment site, enters the water, and the industrial areas were noticed in this study. This outcome requires a sense of urgency toward improving waste management systems and control of industrial pollution in curbing environmental degradation in the region. The research gives policymakers and environmental engineers valuable insights into the creation of sustainable water management practices.