Caracterización de la Calidad de Agua de la Microcuenca del Río Pachanlica de la Provincia de Tungurahua Tomando como Base la Metodología ICA de Montoya

Abstract

The objective of this work was to characterize the water quality of the Pachanlica River micro-watershed in the province of Tungurahua, based on Montoya's ICA Methodology (Water Quality Index), which includes the analysis of 18 physical, chemical and bacteriological parameters. River monitoring points were identified, which are: P1 beginning of the study in the 12 de Octubre sector in Mocha canton; P2 at the Mocha WWTP (Wastewater Treatment Plant); P3 in the Benítez sector; P4 at the discharge of the Prodegel Industry in Ambato canton; and P5 at the end of the river in the Chiquicha sector in Pelileo canton. The average flow in the period February-August 2012 is 1.86 m3/s. A simple comparison was made using the Chi-square statistic for the Quality Indices, the results determine the degree of contamination of the river, thus in the months of February 59.94, March 58.85, April 50.76 the criterion is Little Contamination, in May 33.77 the criterion is Contaminated, the months of June 27.97, July 24.11 and August 29.55 the criterion is Highly Contaminated. As a result of this investigation, the river shows contamination with an average AQI value of 40.71. The main causes of surface water contamination in the province are wastewater discharges from residents, including domestic discharges and industrial activities. Therefore, it is recommended that each municipality take environmental measures to reduce water pollution in the Pachanlica River and improve the quality of life of the population.