Spatial Variation of Metals in the Batang Arau River, West Sumatera, Indonesia

Abstract

This paper aims to assess metallic pollution in the Batang Arau River, an important source of freshwater supply for local communities in West Sumatera, Indonesia, by applying multivariate statistical techniques. Sampling was conducted at eight stations along the river from March to May 2014. The results indicate that all the metals studied have similar spatial distribution patterns, with an increasing trend in concentration from upstream to downstream. Total concentration of six metals studied upstream, as background concentration, was 1.050 mg/L, and increased to 2.249 mg/L downstream. Spatial distribution of metals did not show significant variability (p < 0.05) for Cd, Cr, Fe, and Pb, but Co and Mn did. The results of principal component analysis/factor analysis (PCA/FA) and correlation analysis suggest that Cd, Co, and Fe are originated from natural and anthropogenic sources; Cr and Pb are derived from natural sources; and Mn is controlled by anthropogenic sources.

Analysis of spatial variation of phosphates in Batang Arau River, Indonesia

“…S1 is located in a forested area and there is no influence from human activities on water quality in this area, thus, it can be the reference stream for the other stations. Generally, in unaffected environments, the concentration of most of pollutants in rivers is very low and mostly derived from the weathering of rock and soil [7,13]. Hence, the phosphates concentrations at S1 station are relatively lower than at the other stations.…”

“…Moreover, a spatial analysis should be carried out within a river basin to evaluate the effects of various land use types on water quality. To get designing strategic sampling locations in the management of water resources for an effective monitoring program, spatial analysis is required as well [7]. The results of this study may serve a better interpretation of nutrient pollution and assist in promoting water management and conservation strategies, as well as the design of an effective future spatial monitoring network in the Batang Arau River.…”

“…The river provides a source of freshwater supply for the local communities to perform their daily activities such as bathing, laundry, irrigation, recreation, and most important of all as a source of drinking water. However, rapid industrialization and urbanization as well as agricultural activities along Batang Arau River, has led to intense pollution to the river [6,7]. Previous studies showed that concentration of phosphate from the upstream to the downstream of the river was in the range of 1.38-9.81 mg/L [8] and 1.23-1.63 mg/L [9] that had exceeded the quality standard for river water in West Sumatera based on the Regulation of Governor of West Sumatera No.…”