Effects of a semi-formal urban settlement on groundwater quality

It is too late to prevent contamination of groundwater in this settlement. As a cost-effective measure to reduce health risk, the local authority could consider the provision of a limited water supply, via communal taps, starting in those areas in Zones 2 and 3 except for the south-east where there area already communal taps. A health education campaign on the risks of drinking polluted groundwater in this settlement is also necessary. The development of a sewage system is an alternative although it is expensive with the current situation. Furthermore, although a proper sewage reticulation system would prevent further groundwater contamination, the levels of nitrate will remain high, until flushed by recharge.