Implication of Open Dumpsite on Groundwater Quality in Calabar Metropolis, Nigeria

Aim: This study investigates the implication of the waste dumpsite on the groundwater quality.

Place of Study: The study was conducted in Calabar Metropolis, the Capital of Cross River state of Nigeria.

Methodology: 22 boreholes were selected for the study. Data on these boreholes location, depths and static water levels were obtained from Water Agencies in Cross River State and confirmed during field work. These data were used to develop the groundwater flow map of the study area in a Geographical Information Systems environment. The interpretation of the groundwater flow was done in relation to the major dump site in the City.

Results: Static water level in Calabar metropolis ranged from 0.28 m to 49.6 m with a mean value of 15.83 m and a modal class 0 to 3.99 m. The groundwater flow direction is such that water flows from the northern side down south because of high pressure gradient and high elevations in the north.

Conclusion: It is therefore possible for dissolved waste to be transported through the direction of flow and infiltrate the aquifer, thereby contaminating the groundwater. A new site has suggested in the southern part of the city with coordinates 426679.186E and 554807.648N for the relocation of the dumpsite. Further studies should be conducted to examine the level of contamination of the groundwater by this dump site.