Development of Water Quality Index (WQI) Model for The Evaluation of Groundwater (Well) Status in Yakurr, South – South, Nigeria

This research assessed the condition of groundwater in the Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria, employing the Water Quality Index (WQI) approach. Water samples were obtained from 15 hand-dug wells located within three communities (Mkpani, Ekori, and Ugep) during both rainy and dry periods. A total of nineteen physical, chemical, and microbial indicators were examined, which include pH, turbidity, conductivity, TDS, TSS, chloride, nitrate, phosphate, hardness, sodium, calcium, magnesium, bicarbonate, dissolved oxygen, BOD5, iron, fluoride, and total coliform count. The weighted arithmetic index method was utilized to calculate the WQI. The findings indicated that WQI values varied between 117.1 and 811.4. Two wells were identified in the 'Poor' category (13.33%), four fell into the 'Very Poor' category (26.67%), and nine were marked as 'Unsuitable for Drinking' (60%). The WQI assessment indicated that Ugep was the most severely impacted area, whereas Ekori demonstrated comparatively better water quality. Elevated levels of iron, TCC, and phosphate significantly influenced the high WQI readings. The study concludes that numerous wells in Yakurr are not safe for direct use, highlighting the urgent need for treatment, enhanced sanitation, and ongoing monitoring to maintain public health safety.