Calidad del agua para consumo humano en cuatro comunidades del cantón Colta, provincia de Chimborazo.

Abstract

The communities of Majipamba, Troje Chico, Troje Grande, and Columbe 1 and 2 in Colta City, Chimborazo province face a significant challenge due to the lack of access to safe drinking water, which forces residents to rely on alternative sources such as rivers, streams, and wells. This study aimed to characterize the water quality intended for consumption in these communities. Water samples were collected from three strategic points in each community. For the physical-chemical analyses, sterilized one-liter plastic bottles were used, while for the microbiological analyses, 100 ml of water was collected in sterilized bottles and kept refrigerated until analysis. The parameters analyzed included pH, turbidity, conductivity, fluorides, color, total dissolved solids, alkalinity, temperature, hardness, ammonium, residual chlorine, chlorides, magnesium, calcium, and fecal coliforms. The analyses were carried out following the INEN 1108 Standard during November and December 2023, and January 2024. Statistical analysis employed a single-factor analysis of variance (ANOVA) model and Tukey's test to compare the averages between the months. The results revealed significant differences in the monthly averages of turbidity, temperature, and total hardness. According to the INEN 1108 Standard, the water in the four communities did not present usage restrictions in November and December; however, in January, it showed mild to moderate restrictions. Additionally, the levels of fecal coliforms exceeded the limits established by the standard, reaching very high concentrations. It is recommended that residents be informed of these findings so that they know the quality of the water they consume and the possible restrictions during certain periods of the year. Dissemination of this information is crucial for the health and safety of the communities, given that high levels of fecal coliforms pose a health risk.