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Description
In general, river water pollution in Kosovo is a real concern for the environment and human health. This research aims to assess the water quality of the Mirusha River along its course. Eight sampling points were analyzed. Physico-chemical parameters and some of the heavy metals that are primary indicators of water pollution were determined. The levels of heavy metals (Zn, Cu, Fe and Mn) were analyzed using the atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) method with oven and flame. Statistical analysis was applied to process the experimental data. Water temperature, electrical conductivity, pH, total suspended matter, total soluble matter, detergents, dissolved oxygen, nitrates, sulfates and chlorides are within the permitted limits according to the EU. COD, nitrites and BOD in some sampling points have shown higher values that exceed the EU recommendations. This may be more related to anthropogenic pollution. The total hardness, calcium and alkalinity in the waters of the Mirusha River stream resulted lower than the recommended value, classifying the waters of the Mirusha River stream as soft waters. Cadmium and lead concentrations for some sampling points exceeded the permitted values and this mainly refers to anthropogenic pollution and the geological composition of rocks and soil. Chromium and nickel showed higher values than the recommended value according to EU Directive 98/83/EC and these high levels can be attributed to the rock formation of the soil. This research provides knowledge on possible sources of pollution, helping relevant institutions in taking effective actions to minimize this form of pollution.