Análisis fisicoquímico y microbiológico del agua para consumo humano de la vertiente de Huangupud para la parroquia Cacha, cantón Riobamba; Chimborazo

Abstract

The main objective of the following research focused to analyze the physicochemical and microbiological parameters of water for human consumption from the Huangupud spring of the Cacha parish, Riobamba Canton, Chimborazo. The Cacha parish depends on Huangupud groundwater and it is crucial to analyze its quality to ensure that it is safe for human consumption, thus protecting the health of the community and preventing the spread of water- related diseases, The research had a quantitative approach, with a descriptive design, non- experimental, longitudinal and observational scope, since no variables were manipulated and it was developed in triplicate in June 2024, the study population were the water samples obtained from the collection tanks, distribution tanks, and home networks of the high, middle and low zone. Physicochemical parameters such as cadmium, free residual chlorine, copper, apparent color, conductivity, chromium, fluoride, nitrates, nitrites, pH, total dissolved solids, temperature and turbidity were analyzed using Standard Methods for examination of water and wastewater. While to determine the presence of parasites such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia, the centrifugation technique for recovery and Kinyoun staining. In addition to the membrane filtration technique for fecal coliforms. The results obtained indicate that most of the parameters analyzed comply with NTE INEN 1108:2020; however, the parameters that do not comply with this regulation are: free residual chlorine, which is below the established limit, and fecal coliforms with 2.5 CFU/100mL. It was concluded that the absence of chlorination in the water is an alarming factor that allows the proliferation of bacteria, compromising the health of the population. This indicates that the Huangupud spring water is not suitable for human consumption.