Informal settlements - impact on water quality

Four catchment areas in the Umgeni Water Area of Natal, South Africa, were chosen for this study of river water quality in informal settlements. The catchment areas were similarly sized, but varied in land utilization from dense informal settlements to predominantly agricultural. Bacteriological pollution and phosphorus loading were monitored during 1989. It was found that the catchment with the highest number of informal settlements had the highest non-point source pollution levels. The catchment with predominantly commercial agriculture had the least. It was found that even in formal settlements with water and sanitation services, pit latrines were often located too close to surface water sources, and without proper attention to seepage. The results of this study will be used for an evaluation and reassessment of the Ungeni Water plan regarding water supply, sanitation and consumer education