Qualidade da água destinada ao consumo humano na zona rural de Humaitá-AM

Abstract

Universal access to safe and high-quality water remains a significant challenge for society, especially in remote areas such as rural regions, where the lack of basic sanitation infrastructure exposes the population to risks associated with the consumption of untreated groundwater. In this context, this study evaluated the quality of groundwater intended for human consumption in the district of Auxiliadora, a rural area of the municipality of Humaitá-AM, considering physicochemical, bacteriological aspects, and the application of the Natural Groundwater Quality Index (IQNAS). The research was motivated by the absence of sanitation infrastructure and the local population’s direct use of untreated underground water sources. The general objective was to assess the quality of water intended for human consumption in the rural area of Humaitá-AM, with specific objectives including: determining the physicochemical and bacteriological parameters of the water, comparing the results with current legislation, and applying the IQNAS as a classification tool for water quality, as proposed by Oliveira et al. (2007). Three sampling campaigns were carried out in August 2023, November 2023, and March 2024, across ten sampling points. Parameters such as pH, nitrate, chloride, fluoride, hardness, total solids, among others, were analyzed, in addition to testing for the presence of total coliforms, thermotolerant coliforms, and Escherichia coli. The results showed that although pH levels were below the recommended range—indicating water acidity—the remaining parameters complied with the limits established by Ordinance GM/MS nº 888/2021 and CONAMA Resolution nº 396/2008. Regarding bacteriological quality, fecal contamination was detected at specific points, especially during the third campaign, highlighting the influence of seasonality on water quality. The application of IQNAS classified the water at all analyzed points as having “excellent” quality, indicating that despite limitations in isolated parameters, the overall set of indicators contributed to a favorable assessment of the water resource. The study concludes that, although specific risks exist, the water quality in the district of auxiliadora is generally satisfactory, provided that regular monitoring is ensured.