Assessment of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Level of Orogodo River, Agbor, Delta State.
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Description
The Orogodo River, situated in Agbor, Delta State, Nigeria, is a crucial water resource that sustains numerous economic and recreational activities. However, the river faces significant pollution risks from various human-related sources, such as industrial and domestic waste, which can introduce polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) into the water. PAHs are toxic and carcinogenic substances that pose serious risks to both human health and the environment. This study focused on assessing the levels of PAHs in the Orogodo River’s water. Water samples were gathered from five distinct locations along the river and analyzed for PAHs using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The findings revealed that PAH concentrations in the river surpassed the maximum permissible limits established by regulatory authorities. The highest levels of PAHs were detected in samples taken near industrial and urban zones, highlighting these areas as major contributors to PAH contamination. Among the PAH compounds identified, acenaphthylene was the most prevalent, while benzo(a)pyrene was the least detected.The results of this study carry important implications for both human health and environmental sustainability. The elevated levels of PAHs detected in the Orogodo River present a potential risk to individuals who rely on the river for domestic and recreational activities. As such, immediate action is required to address and reduce PAH pollution in the river. This includes adopting effective waste management practices and ensuring strict enforcement of environmental regulations. The findings of this study offer critical insights for policymakers, environmental managers, and other stakeholders, enabling them to formulate strategies aimed at mitigating PAH contamination in the Orogodo River. These efforts are essential to safeguarding the health and well-being of communities that depend on this vital water resource. Keywords: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons; Environmental sustainability; Contamination; Orogodo river.