Avaliação do sistema de abastecimento de água da aldeia monte mor e proposição de solução de segurança hídrica para a região

Abstract

Access to safe drinking water remains one of the main challenges faced by Indigenous communities in Brazil, reflecting historical inequalities and weaknesses in basic sanitation. In Aldeia Monte Mor, located on the northern coast of Paraíba, the direct dependence on the Catolé Stream as a water supply source highlights a reality marked by environmental and sanitary risks. In this context, this study aimed to analyze the quality of the water consumed by the community, considering both physicochemical and microbiological parameters, in comparison with legal standards of potability and waterbody classification. Analyses carried out at different points of the water supply system revealed partial compliance, but also the presence of parameters in disagreement with current legislation, such as the detection of total coliforms and Escherichia coli, in addition to pH, apparent color, and iron values that exceeded the maximum limits allowed. The application of the Water Quality Index (WQI) and the risk assessment and prioritization matrix evidenced structural and operational weaknesses, indicating vulnerabilities that compromise water security and expose the population to potential health risks. The results reinforce the urgency of implementing control measures included in the risk matrix. Among these, the following stand out: the implementation of a disinfection system, maintaining a minimum concentration of 0.20 mg/L of free residual chlorine in the water (throughout the distribution network, reservoirs, and consumption points), a filtration system for surface water sources ensuring a maximum turbidity of 0.5 NTU at the treatment outlet, and continuous monitoring of distributed water quality. More than diagnosing nonconformities, this study provides technical and scientific evidence to support public and community actions, contributing to the realization of the human right to safe drinking water and to the reduction of socio-environmental inequalities affecting Indigenous peoples.