ASSESSMENT AND SPATIAL ANALYSIS OF GROUNDWATER QUALITY IN A SEMI-ARID URBAN ENVIRONMENT: EVIDENCE FROM DAURA TOWN, NORTH-WESTERN NIGERIA

Purpose: Groundwater is the primary source of domestic water supply in most semi-arid regions of northern Nigeria due to limited surface water availability and inadequate municipal water infrastructure. This study assessed physicochemical quality and spatial distribution of groundwater in Daura Town, Katsina State, with the aim of evaluating its suitability for domestic use.

Design/methodology/approach: A systematic sampling approach was adopted, and twelve groundwater samples were collected from six boreholes and six hand-dug wells across the study area. Field sampling was supported by Global Positioning System (GPS) measurements, while laboratory analyses were conducted to determine pH, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Total hardness, Chloride, Calcium, Magnesium, Iron, Copper, and Bicarbonate concentrations.

Findings: Results revealed that groundwater pH values ranged from neutral to slightly alkaline and fell within the permissible limits set by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON). TDS, total hardness, chloride, magnesium, copper, and bicarbonate concentrations were generally low and within acceptable standards, indicating fresh and low-mineralised groundwater. However, localised elevated iron concentrations were observed in some borehole samples, likely due to geogenic sources and corrosion of borehole infrastructure. Spatial analysis showed variability in groundwater quality across Daura Town, influenced by land use patterns, population density, and source protection conditions.

Research limitations/Implications: The limitations include the use of selected elements and the total number of samples used in the paper.

Practical implications: The study concludes that groundwater in Daura Town is largely suitable for domestic use, but recommends regular monitoring, improved sanitation practices, and enforcement of groundwater protection measures to prevent future contamination and ensure sustainable water resource management.

Originality/value: It is clear from the findings that groundwater quality is safe in the study area, but effective measures for monitoring and improved water infrastructure remain crucial in the provision of portable water in the Daura area.