Examining odor-producing chemical gases in Gohar-Rud River and their potential effect on residents surrounding: A case study

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Environment, Lahijan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Lahijan, Iran

2 Department of Chemistry, Rasht Branch, Islamic Azad University, Rasht, Iran

3 Department of Microbiology, Lahijan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Lahijan, Iran

10.22124/cjes.2024.8033

Abstract

In developing countries such as Iran, where comprehensive wastewater treatment measures have yet to be implemented, sewage disposal in rivers represents a means of eliminating it. This phenomenon results in the transformation of urban rivers into open sewers. The study's objective was to quantify the odor-producing gases and assess their potential impact on the residents in the vicinity of the Gohar-Rud River in Iran. The identification and measurement of odor-producing gases from this sewage river were conducted through the sampling and laboratory analysis of gases such as hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, and mercaptans in the initial area of human exploitation near the river. This was carried out following the global NIOSH method. The study was conducted by distributing questionnaires to residents near the river, and the results were subsequently analyzed using SPSS software. Based on field observations and laboratory studies on odor-producing gases, it can be concluded that hydrogen sulfide with an average concentration of 3.51 ± 0.09 ppm, is the primary cause of odor in this river. The findings of this study demonstrate the impact of the Gohar-Rud River's unpleasant odor on the health and quality of life of those residing in its vicinity. This was achieved through the utilization of self-perceived and self-sensory methodologies. The results show that the level of life convenience influences the quality of human life. In this regard, qualitative criteria such as convenience with health, good mental conditions, and having stable conditions in daily habits can be effective. The level of convenience with the quality of life in the marginal residents of Gohar-Rud River based on the level of enjoyment of life in daily activities is low. Inconvenience with health and nervous disorders is important in reducing the level of convenience among the residents of this river.
 

Keywords


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