Chemical analyses at the Lumbardh River in Prizren
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35208/ert.1617529Keywords:
Chemical pollutants, nitrate, nitrite, ammonium, nickel, water quality, biodiversityAbstract
Economic development, particularly industrial activity in the Lumbardhi Valley (Zhupa region), has led to the release of chemical pollutants that threaten aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity. This study evaluated the chemical status of the Lumbardh River through a three-phase approach: water sample collection, laboratory analysis at the Hydrometeorology Institute, and comparative assessment. Results revealed that nitrate (NO₃⁻) concentrations reached 52 mg/L, exceeding the EU limit of 50 mg/L; nitrite (NO₂⁻) averaged 0.35 mg/L, surpassing the 0.10 mg/L standard; ammonium (NH₄⁺) reached 1.8 mg/L compared to the 0.5 mg/L threshold; and nickel (Ni²⁺) concentrations ranged between 0.06–0.09 mg/L, well above the 0.02 mg/L limit. These elevated levels were most evident from the second sampling point through the river’s outlet from the city, where biodiversity degradation was also observed, and particularly affecting fish development. The findings underscore the urgent need for systematic, seasonal monitoring, identification of critical pollution sources, and implementation of institutional measures to mitigate further ecological damage and protect natural resources.
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