Analysis of physico-chemical properties and heavy metals content of drinking water from selected areas in Gurage Zone, Ethiopia

Metal contamination in water is a major determinant of water quality. People who consume this water suffer from water borne diseases. There are various natural and anthropological activities at the sample collection site leading to increase in concentration of trace elements in drinking water. Activities like corrosion of metal coated pipes, herbicides, insecticides, ceramic wastes, taking gravel from near water source, etc. may lead to pollution of drinking water by heavy metals like chromium. The objective of this study was to detect metal concentration in spring and tap water from selected residential areas in the Gurage Zone. Tap water samples were collected from seven different locations during the rainy season. Samples were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrometry to determine the concentration of dissolved metal. Metal analysis was done to detect chromium, copper, zinc, lead, cadmium, magnesium and calcium. The results obtained were compared with guidelines for drinking water quality such as the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Key words: Cadmium, copper, lead metal concentration, chromium, Gurage Zone.