Drinking Water Pollution and Its Impacts on Public Health and the Environment in Rosso (Mauritania)

Abstract

     Water represents one of the most vital natural resources in the city of Rosso, particularly the waters of the Senegal River, upon which the city relies for agriculture, drinking water supply, and industrial activities. However, water pollution has increased in recent years due to multiple factors, posing serious threats to human health and disrupting environmental balance.

This study aims to identify the main sources of pollution affecting the Senegal River in Rosso, assess the quality and characteristics of its waters, and analyze the levels of contamination and their impacts on both the population and the urban environment. The research adopts an analytical approach based on the examination of physical, chemical, and bacteriological parameters to evaluate water quality and pollution indicators in Rosso.

The findings reveal a deterioration in the quality of drinking water in Rosso and highlight its adverse effects on public health. The study also points to the increased economic burden on low-income households in securing safe water, as well as the negative consequences for biodiversity and overall environmental health. These results underscore the urgent need for intervention to improve water quality.

The research proposes a set of recommendations to mitigate the problem, including regulating and preventing polluting human activities along the banks of the Senegal River and conducting regular monitoring and laboratory analyses of river water quality.