Evaluation of the water quality of a highly polluted stream with water quality indices and health risk assessment methods

The water quality of corlu Stream, located in the Thrace region of Turkiye, and exposed to intense industrial pressure, was evaluated by monitoring 10 toxic metals and 13 other water quality variables in the dry and wet seasons of 2021. Seven different water quality indices were applied to determine the pollution level at the sampling stations in the stream. In addition, human health risks from exposure to toxic metals in stream water via ingestion and dermal contact were evaluated. The results showed that the water quality at stations S2 and S3 of corlu Stream receiving domestic and industrial discharges are seriously polluted by NH4-N, PO4-P, COD, BOD5 and suspended solids according to surface water quality standards. In addition, these stations were highly polluted and had poor water quality according to the results of the water quality indices. The average Cr level at station S3 exceeded the permissible levels set for the protection of aquatic life due to effluent discharges from the leather factories. Considering the results of the health risk assessment methods, non-carcinogenic risks from ingestion of combined metals in stream water can be expected at station S3 for both children and adults and at station S2 for children. Also, it was estimated that Cr and As at station S3 may cause carcinogenic health risks for residents.

Automated summary

The water quality of corlu Stream in the Thrace region of Turkiye, under intense industrial pressure, was evaluated. The results showed that stations S2 and S3 receiving domestic and industrial discharges were seriously polluted and had poor water quality. In addition, health risks from ingestion of combined metals were identified at station S3 for both children and adults, and at station S2 for children. The presence of Cr and As at station S3 may also pose carcinogenic health risks for residents.