Abstract
Water is essential for human activity, economic growth, and sustaining life on earth. Even
though it covers a substantial portion of the earth's surface, 2.2 billion people worldwide
still have no access to safe drinking water. Among other countries, South Africa faces
water challenges in supplying its population with safe drinking water. Most critical issues
arise from the poor quality of raw water sources, which are usually polluted with harmful
microorganisms, industrial waste, and other contaminants. These threaten human health
through waterborne diseases, which may lead to diseases. It underscores the need to
critically assess the water treatment plants' water quality.
The purpose of this study was to assess the performance of the Temba Water Treatment
Plant (TWTP) in terms of water quality in Hammanskraal, South Africa. Water samples
from both inlet and outlet were collected in sterilised 12.5 L bottles and comprehensively
analysed in the laboratory using methods such as Nephelometric analysis, Gravimetric
method, etc. Important water quality parameters, such as pH, turbidity, TDS, ammonia,
manganese, and E. coli were measured. The results were subsequently compared with
global and national drinking water standards.
The study result indicates TWTP demonstrated remarkable efficiency in treating water,
with results substantially complying with established international standards. Notably, a
99.9% decrease in E. coli was observed, indicating the plant's adequate disinfection
capacity. However, some parameters, such as manganese, colour, and ammonia,
exceeded the recommended standards, suggesting areas for improvement. Conducting
additional research to pinpoint the cause and implement effective solutions to this high E.
coli content in the raw water is critical. Simultaneously, a focus expansion of the plant's
capacity to meet future demands, prioritising regular maintenance, and building stronger
community relationships. Further development of the plant's efficiency will be through
real-time monitoring systems and more modern approaches to treatment techniques.
Keywords: Water Treatment Plant, Water Quality, Performance, Drinking Water
standards, Temba, Hammanskraal, South Africa