Assessment of River and Well Water Quality and Health Impacts of Domestic Waste in the Raci River Downstream

Abstract

National monitoring data from the 2023 Performance Report of the Directorate of Water Pollution Control show that household activities (domestic waste) are the dominant source of water pollution in Indonesia. In East Java, Pasuruan Regency recorded 133 water-pollution reports during 2014–2018, ranking second after Sidoarjo City. The Raci River in Pasuruan receives inputs from agricultural, industrial, and domestic activities, and high domestic discharges are likely degrading the surrounding environment. This study described the quality of Raci River water and nearby community well water using Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), odor, color, phosphate, and nitrite as indicators of domestic contamination. A quantitative descriptive design was applied (December 2023–August 2024). Samples comprised six river-water samples, thirteen well-water samples, and interviews with thirteen community respondents. Results showed that both Raci River water and adjacent well water exceeded established water-quality standards on the assessed parameters. Health effects plausibly associated with well-water use were reported by residents who used it for cooking and drinking within the prior three months, including diarrhea and itching/skin irritation. Environmental and construction factors identified as influencing well-water quality included well depth, well-floor condition, well-floor structure, and the distance between wells and wastewater disposal channels. These findings indicate substantial domestic pollution pressure on the Raci River with concurrent risks to shallow groundwater used by households. Strengthening domestic wastewater management and improving well siting and construction are warranted to protect public health.