Heavy Metal Contamination and Water Quality Deterioration Along the River–Estuary Continuum of the Cisadane River, Indonesia

Information from the abstract

The Cisadane River is vital to local communities, but it is threatened by increasing environmental issues, especially heavy metal contamination. This study aims to identify heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and As) distribution in the downstream and estuarine areas of the Cisadane River’s surface water, and to assess water suitability for various uses. Multivariate analysis and pollution indices were employed to evaluate heavy metals variations, pollution hotspots, and contamination status. The results revealed distinct patterns of heavy metal distribution, with clear pollution hotspots. All heavy metals, except As, have the highest concentrations in the dry season, with contamination hotspots concentrated in the downstream and river mouth areas. Anthropogenic sources, particularly landfills and industries, were suspected of being major contributors to elevated heavy metal levels in the downstream section. Heavy metals including Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb, and As exceeded the Indonesian national water quality standards for river water (non-drinking water). Among these, Cd, Ni, Pb, and As also surpassed the WHO drinking water guidelines, indicating potential risks to human health if the water is used as a drinking water source. Furthermore, Cd, Cu, Fe, Ni, and Pb exceeded the US EPA water quality criteria for the protection of aquatic life, suggesting possible adverse effects on aquatic organisms and ecosystem health. Moreover, pollution indices classified the river water as severely contaminated, indicating that it is unsuitable for both drinking and non-drinking uses. Pollution indices also indicate that the riverine and estuarine water are also unsuitable for the protection of aquatic life. These findings suggest urgent actions for stronger industrial monitoring, improved water quality monitoring, and enforcement of regulations. Long-term actions include ecosystem rehabilitation and advanced wastewater treatment.

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Related topics: Heavy metals in environment · Marine and Coastal Ecosystems · Heavy Metal Pollution Remediation