Assessment of community perceptions on drinking water quality and its implications for human health in Islamabad, Pakistan: A comprehensive analysis

Water pollution is a global concern, and Pakistan is no exception, where protecting water resources and addressing pollution are crucial. This research aimed to assess the public's comprehension of water quality, anthropogenic sources of contamination, and the associated responsibilities in Islamabad. A questionnaire survey was conducted to investigate the different socio-demographic and behavioral factors affecting the Perception of Water Pollution (POWP). The impact of these variables on community perception of drinking water quality and its effects on human health were investigated using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression, along with the SPSS and R software for statistical analysis. The findings revealed that 60-70 % of the surveyed population exhibited awareness of water quality and perceived associated risks, with a striking 76 % acknowledging the link between water pollution and health issues. Higher educational and income levels demonstrated a significantly better understanding of water pollution and its health implications. Additionally, 35 % of respondents considered diarrhea as the predominant waterborne disease. Besides addressing the pressing issue of water pollution and scarcity, this study underscores the potential utility of public perception for state government and administration in formulating interventions for groundwater management along with the behavioral change strategies, emphasizing social, and technological drivers.