Evaluation of drinking water quality and potential health risks on the population in Morocco

Morocco faces significant challenges in ensuring drinking water quality. To date, research has predominantly focused on surface and groundwater, often neglecting drinking water quality. This study aims to evaluate drinking water quality, the suitability for consumption, and assess the health risks to the population in eight cities within the Rabat-Sal & eacute;-Kenitra region. The WQI ranged between 1.75 and 1026.95, with 97.4 % of the samples deemed unsuitable for drinking. Iron, copper, and pH levels were within national and World Health Organization (WHO) standards. Manganese levels ranged between 0-1.1 mg/L, with 99 % of samples exceeding the WHO limit. Additionally, 68 % of samples exceeded the recommended chloride limit, and 18 % were unpalatable. The Average Daily Dose via ingestion and dermal contact for children and adults primarily followed the order of Mn > Cu > Fe, indicating higher health risks for children than for adults. The hazard index ranged between 0.1161-0.2 831 for adults, within the permissible limit, and between 0.0345-1.7080 for children, presenting significant health risks for children. This study highlights the urgent need to address drinking water quality in Morocco, particularly concerning manganese and associated health risks to children. Updating national standards to align with international guidelines and implementing preventive measures is crucial to safeguard public health.