Study of Physical and Chemical Properties of Drinking Water Sources on the Citarum River Irrigation Area in Karawang, West Java, Indonesia

Abstract

Citarum River in West Java has been named as the most polluted river in the world. The irrigation stream plays an important role in society as the source of agricultural and drinking water. However, the increasing number of industries and population density along the river have made this river dirtier. This study aims to determine the physical and chemical characteristics of water in the Citarum River irrigation area. There were 33 samples that were taken for every 1,5 km. The physical chemical water parameters were tested at DLHK Karawang Water Laboratory. The water surface has a sharper color and smell when entering the industrial areas. This finding indicates that several chemical wastes are dumped directly into the water. The turbid color of the river water exceeds the set threshold. In addition, the dissolved iron content was above the standard. The results of this research can be implemented in the fields of water management, environment, and public health. Moreover, the results can be used as a basis for the government to make regulations. In addition, this can be used for other researchers in the development of science.