Geospatial distribution of heavy metals (Pb, Cu and Fe) from the Muara Bangkahulu River sediments, Bengkulu Province, Indonesia

The Muara Bangkahulu River (MBR) in Bengkulu City, Indonesia is experiencing significant pollution pressure due to increasing anthropogenic activities along its course. This study investigates the spatial distribution and concentration of heavy metals specifically Lead (Pb), Copper (Cu), and Iron (Fe) within riverbed sediments. Utilizing Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS), the research aims to map elemental partitioning and identify potential accumulation zones within the fluvial system. In order to estimate the heavy metal concentrations, sediment samples were collected and analysed from 10 locations along the MBR. The results show that Cu concentrations range from 793 to 4,126 mg/kg, while Pb concentrations vary between 232 and 630.62 mg/kg, and Fe concentrations range from 2,233,850 to 3,404,343 mg/kg. The findings reveal that Cu and Pb levels at most sampling sites exceed the severe contamination thresholds, while Fe concentrations are also elevated at several locations. Sampling site at C10 was identified as the hotspot with the highest accumulation of all three metals. In addition, statistical tests and K-Means clustering analysis confirmed significant spatial variability in the distribution of heavy metal. These findings highlight the urgent need for enhanced environmental management strategies and continuous monitoring to mitigate contamination and protect the ecological integrity of the MBR system. The MBR in Bengkulu City, Indonesia is experiencing significant pollution. The Cu and Pb concentrations range from 793 to 4,126 mg/kg and from 232 to 630.62 mg/kg, respectively, while Fe concentrations reach up to 3,404,343 mg/kg. Continuous monitoring the MBR is needed to protect the ecological system.