Uso e qualidade de água em uma comunidade quilombola do Oeste do Pará. Uma análise físico-química e bacteriológica do Poço artesiano em Murumurutuba-PA

Abstract

Water is a common chemical substance essential for the survival of all known life forms. Quality access to water for the population is of utmost importance for public health, since many infectious diseases are transmitted through water via the fecal-oral route. Investigating and addressing these issues in remote communities highlights the urgent need for attention to these populations, benefiting the collective well-being by assessing the potability of local water. Thus, the analysis of water in wells becomes essential to protect public health, preserve the environment and ensure the sustainable use of water resources. To this end, a study was carried out in the quilombola community of Murumurutuba, in Santarém, Pará, with the objective of evaluating the quality of water from artesian wells. The analysis included physical-chemical and bacteriological parameters, following standardized methodologies. The water analyzed was suitable for human consumption, with a pH within the limits, although acidic, without contamination by E. coli and with low contamination by nitrates and ammonia. The analysis also indicated that dissolved solids and electrical conductivity values were within acceptable limits. Metals such as iron and manganese presented concentrations slightly above the desired level, affecting the taste of the water. However, 80% of residents expressed dissatisfaction with the supply and 12% reported cases of diarrhea, suggesting possible problems with water quality. Lack of preventive maintenance of wells and absence of continuous monitoring of water quality were identified as critical factors.