Assessing agbor metropolis's soil and groundwater environmental effects of storage tank leaks

Abstract

The effect of surface and groundwater petroleum storage tank leaks in Agbor Metropolis, Delta State, Nigeria, on the environment was investigated in this study. The study filled important knowledge gaps regarding hydrocarbon pollution in developing metropolitan settings with little environmental regulatory control. Using a multi-step approach, researchers conducted extensive soil and groundwater sampling at six Petrol stations. It uses chemical analysis and geospatial mapping techniques to assess the level of contamination. Results revealed significant contamination, mainly at Locations A and C. Groundwater Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH) concentrations ranged from 520.345 µg/L to 755.678 µg/L, substantially exceeding World Health Organization drinking water standards. Soil contamination exhibited a steady rise in pollutant concentrations with depth, with TPH maxima attaining 530.345 mg/kg. The concentrations of BTEX ranged from 22.345 µg/L to 42.123 µg/L, indicating significant aromatic hydrocarbon pollution. Although the dissolved oxygen was within constant levels of 3.234-4.200 mg/L and near-neutral pH values of 6.770-7.050, the study concludes that groundwater in Agbor Metropolis is under severe environmental risk. This paper highlights the critical need for focused remediation measures, increased underground storage tank regulations, and thorough environmental monitoring in rapidly urbanising regions. The results will add significantly to the knowledge base on localised petroleum pollution dynamics, forming a fundamental paradigm toward environmental management and public health protection in emerging metropolitan areas.