Abstract:
Access to clean and safe drinking water is a fundamental human right essential for maintaining health, yet a significant portion of the global population still lacks reliable access to such resources. This challenge is especially acute in Sub-Saharan Africa, where more than one-third of the population is deprived of safe drinking water. The health impacts of consuming contaminated water are profound, contributing to approximately 80% of diseases worldwide. To address this concern, a longitudinal study was carried out in Holeta between march 2024 and August 2024, focusing on the use of sanitary inspection as a tool for assessing risks associated with water sources. This study investigates seasonal variations in bacterial contamination and water quality across multiple sites, focusing on the presence of E. coli and Enterococci as indicators of fecal pollution. Water samples were collected during both dry and wet seasons from sites under different conditions, including Dry \season, Wet Season, and Water Reservoir. This study aimed to assess the microbial and physicochemical quality of potable water sources in Holeta Town, Ethiopia, with a focus on seasonal variations. The investigation covered multiple sampling sites and analyzed key indicators such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), Enterococci, temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), and electrical conductivity (EC). Microbiological analysis revealed higher E. coli contamination during the wet season, with up to 66% of samples testing positive, especially at Dobi and
Burka Welmera. In contrast, the dry season showed reduced contamination levels, averaging 50%, although certain sites such as GgHH5C and DR still exhibited elevated readings.
Enterococci were consistently prevalent across both seasons, with 100% detection at sites Dobi Reservior and Welmera Reservior. Physicochemical parameters showed moderate seasonal fluctuations. The water temperature of Wet season was ranged between 18°C and 23.3°C, and pH levels varied from 6.31 to 6.91, indicating neutral to slightly acidic conditions. DO levels during the wet season ranged from 1.45 to 6.24 mg/L, indicating variability in oxygenation, while EC values spanned from 79 to 993 μS/cm, influenced by rainfall and possible anthropogenic activities. Despite these variations, all water samples for all within the World Health Organization's low-risk category for microbial contamination (E. coli < 10 CFU/100 mL), implying suitability for consumption following basic disinfection methods such as boiling or chlorination. The findings underscore the importance of continuous monitoring and seasonal adaptation in water safety management.
Key Words/Phrases: Water Quality, E.coli,
