Water pollution diagnosis and risk assessment of Wadi Zied plain aquifer caused by the leachates of Annaba landfill (N-E Algeria)

Abstract

The population growth and the intensification of socio-economic activities in the region of Annaba, have a direct impact of increasing waste discharge of all kinds at its landfill. This last represents a real source of environmental pollution. This study aims to identify this pollution and its risks. Therefore, physico-chemical analyses were performed on leachates and water of the plain, which is located in the downstream of the landfill representing a direct relation with a highly sensitive ecosystem of the Fetzara Lake. A sampling campaign and analysis (pH, Eh, T, EC, major ions, heavy metals) were performed on all points (wells, boreholes and leachates). The mapping of hydrochemical elements allows the understanding of the pollution mechanisms and their origins. The use of LWPI as a tool for identifying hazards show that the leachate have a significant impact on water quality of the study area. A diagnosis of risks on public health has been achieved using the RI as hazard index. Results indicates few scenarios of water uses and show the significant influence of the old landfill site on the quality of water and the degradation of people's lives.