Water quality in drinking water sources in Dnipropetrovsk region during hostilities

Abstract

Military actions in Ukraine have severely affected water sources, mainly due to the destruction of dams, pumping stations, treatment facilities, canals, and the seizure of water infrastructure. These events damaged water supply systems and contaminated drinking sources, reducing reserves in certain areas. The issue is intensified in Ukraine due to the high industrialization of regions near active conflict zones. This study focuses on the impact of war on drinking water in the Dnipropetrovsk region, located 105–150 km from the front line. Further risks to water quality stem from missile attacks, where debris from rockets and drones targeting cities like Dnipro, Samara, and Kamianske may alter the chemical state of nearby aquatic ecosystems. To evaluate water safety, we conducted a p hysicochemical analysis of 16 indicators, including pH, oxidation, alkalinity, conductivity, metals (iron, copper, cadmium, zinc), and nitrogen compounds. Results were benchmarked against national sanitary standards (DSanPiN 2.2.4-171-10, 2010) applicable to well and spring waters. Exceedances of pH and permanganate oxidizability were found in Kocherezhky and Novotroitske villages, while nitrate exceedance was recorded only in Bulakhivka. Water quality classes were determined using DSTU 4808:2007 standards. The poorest quality was in Bulakhivka’s well, where 5 of 13 parameters fell into the 4th class (mediocre), while Kocherezhky’s pumproom showed the best quality, with 10 of 13 indicators rated as 1st class (excellent).