Investigation of the Wabe River water’s suitability for drinking purposes and aquatic life and detection of pollution sources

Abstract Wabe River is a vital source of drinking water, irrigation for agriculture, and income the local residents. However, river's declining quality has led to an increase in waterborne infections made it appear muddier. The study's objective was evaluate river water using 23 different parameters calculate Weighted Arithmetic Water Quality Index (WAWQI), Metal (MI), Pollution (PI), Potential Ecological Risk (PERI). origins hydro-chemical makeup were also ascertained Piper diagrams Gibb's plots. During wet season, WAWQI results revealed that unfit drinking, which range from 205.4 487.8 (> 100) at all sampling stations. dry ranged good unsuitable (48.7–101.4). Similarly, greater than 1(MI > 1) indicates ‘Threshold warning’ aquatic life both seasons. index showed ‘seriously’ effect on life. risk level posed by those metals according PERI 436.9 (Strong) 1714.1 (Very high) 288.5 (Moderate) 704.3 during seasons, respectively. sources contamination confirmed plots as rock weathering, evaporation, anthropogenic activities, type classified calcium-magnesium-chloride piper diagram. Controlling pollution necessary preserving River's sustainability.