Quality Analysis of Urea Plant Wastewater and its Impact on Surface Water Bodies

Abstract

This study was conducted on the canal water that flows besides an urea manufacturing facility. The study focused to evaluate the impact of facility’s effluents. The canal water quality is being affected drastically due to heavy load of pollutants discharged. Samples were collected by grab sampling method, from various locations. These samples were analyzed regarding physiochemical parameters, i.e. temperature, pH, TDS, TSS, BOD5, COD, heavy metals (Fe, Cu, Cr, Mn) and NH3 content. The canal water quality deteriorates after receiving a substantial load of effluents discharged from urea fertilizer plant. The results compared with WHO and NEQS, showed that the effluent samples had alkaline nature with a high level of ammonia and BOD5 and are not safe for aquatic life and environment. It is therefore recommended that discharge of untreated effluents should be stopped, or allowed within safe limits.