| Abstrakt: |
The drinking water supply in the Prizren Region still poses a challenge to local and central governments. Over 30% of the inhabitants of this region are not supplied with safe drinking water. They are bound by alternative supply solutions. Many households provide drinking water from artisanal wells to provide water for consumption. The water provided by these springs is often unsuitable and unsafe because it is not treated. In this research, we have studied the quality of drinking water in ten artisanal wells that constitute the main source of supply for more than 10 households, in different villages of the Prizren region. Samples were subjected to laboratory analyses evaluating physic-chemical and bacteriological parameters. In assessing the quality of the samples, we used the prospective analytical epidemiological method. Physico-chemical and bacteriological samples were analyzed in the water laboratory of the Regional Institute of Public Health in Prizren. In the research physic-chemical parameters such as; temperature, turbidity, pH, ammonia, nitrates, nitrites, iron, and manganese were investigated with a turbid meter, tempo meter, pH meter, and photometer (Hanna Instruments), while in the microbiological analysis we used the membrane filter method. The results are compared with the standards for drinking water according to National Instruction 16/2012, harmonized with the European Directive on Drinking Water. The results showed that 4 samples of 10, are characterized by increased values compared to the allowed standards for drinking water according to National Instruction 16/20212. Of these, 2 samples had increased turbidity values where the nephelometric turbidity unit was 2.2, and iron 14 mg/L. In 4 samples we found the presence of bacterial contamination like coliform bacteria E. coli. Other samples are within permitted standards. We concluded that the quality of drinking water from artisanal wells is not safe for human consumption, and/or it should be treated before use. Especially bacteriological findings speak of contamination and must necessarily be disinfected before use. Local institutions should increase care for the water supply of these residents, at best monitoring its quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
