Assessing the Quality of Treated Wastewater: Sidi Bel Abbes and El Kerma-Oran WWTP’s (North-West Algeria)

Zenaidi, Sarah; Boucetta, Sabrine; Fartout-Mouri, Nadjia; KERFOUF, Ahmed

doi:10.21608/ejabf.2025.425910.6621

Assessing the Quality of Treated Wastewater: Sidi Bel Abbes and El Kerma-Oran WWTP’s (North-West Algeria)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Laboratory of plant diversity: conservation and valorization University of Sidi Bel Abbes, 22000, Algeria

² Department of Nature and Life Sciences, University of August 20-1955, Skikda, 21000, Algeria

³ Labatory of eco-development of space, University Djillali Liabes, Sidi Bel Abb&egrave;s, 22000, Algeria.

10.21608/ejabf.2025.425910.6621

Abstract

The study aimed to assess the performance and characteristics of wastewater treatment processes in two wastewater treatment plant in northwestern Algeria, during the period from 2016 to 2024. The results showed that mean concentrations of BOD₅ were significantly higher at Sidi Bel Abbès (25.6 ± 3.2 mg/L) compared to El Kerma (18.4 ± 2.9 mg/L), and for SS, El Kerma exhibited significantly lower levels (34.1 ± 5.4 mg/L) than Sidi Bel Abbès (47.2 ± 6.3 mg/L). Although both stations achieved considerable reductions post-treatment, the residual COD remained higher at Sidi Bel Abbes. The statistical analysis using ANOVA revealed statistically significant differences between the two stations for key parameters such as pH, BOD₅, COD, SS, phosphates, and turbidity (P< 0.05), indicating variations in influent characteristics and operational efficiency. Furthermore, the treatment effect was highly significant (P< 0.001) across most parameters, confirming the overall efficacy of both stations in improving wastewater quality. The comparative analysis of microbiological indicators in inlet and outlet waters of the Sidi Be Abbès and El-Kerma WWTPs reveals significant reductions in microbial loads post-treatment, though with variable efficiency between sites. These findings underscore the importance of continuous monitoring, preventive maintenance, and adaptive management in maintaining optimal performance of wastewater treatment infrastructures. Further investigation into the causes of performance variability at the Sidi Bel Abbes station—whether technical, managerial, or environmental is warranted to ensure long-term sustainability and public health protection.

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