Assessment of Groundwater Pollution In Botlokwa Village In Limpopo Province Of South Africa

Groundwater constituted a critical source of potable water for rural communities in South Africa, including Botlokwa Village under the jurisdiction of Polokwane Municipality. The primary objective of this study was to assess the extent of groundwater contamination in Botlokwa, with specific emphasis on determining the physicochemical characteristics of borehole water and comparing them to the South African National Standards (SANS 241:2015). Additionally, the study aimed to identify potential public health risks associated with groundwater pollution. A total of 107 water samples were collected from randomly selected boreholes situated across residential, public facilities, and commercial zones within the study area. These samples were analysed by a certified independent laboratory to assess concentrations of heavy metals, nitrates, and microbial contaminants. Results indicated elevated levels of aluminium and iron, as well as nitrate concentrations that exceeded the permissible limits stipulated by both SANS 241 and World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Although Escherichia coli was not detected in any sample, the elevated chemical parameters posed considerable health risks particularly to infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Comparative findings from similar studies conducted in nearby communities such as Mankweng and Ga-Matlala demonstrated consistent patterns of non-compliance, reinforcing the urgent need for proactive water quality monitoring, community-level intervention, and investment in localised treatment technologies.