Analysis of Well Water Quality in the District of Pasir Puteh, Kelantan, Malaysia

Abstract

This study was conducted to examine well water quality in areas of different land use in Pasir Puteh, Kelantan, Malaysia. A total of four water sampling locations were selected to represent specific land use types, including Pasir Puteh town (urban land use), Padang Pak Amat (industrial land use), Bukit Gedombak (landfill site) and Kampung Jelor (agricultural land use). Well water sampling was carried out twice, in March 2018 and April 2018. Water quality samples were analysed both in-situ and in the laboratory based on the Water Quality Index (WQI) as determined by the Malaysian Department of Environment (DOE). Water quality parameters analysed included Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Ammonia Nitrogen (NH3N), pH and Total Suspended Solids (TSS). The findings showed that although values of the six parameters observed did not exceed the specified standards, well water quality in all four types of land-use areas belonged to WQI Class III, with values ranging between 61.5 and 74.5. Class III quality indicates that the water should be treated first if it is to be used as drinking water supply. Well water quality in the area subject to agricultural land use exhibited the lowest WQI value of 61.5, reflecting the influence of local rice paddy activities. Continuous monitoring and immediate measures must therefore be undertaken, as these water sources remain exploited by locals for everyday use.