Contribution Towards Improvement of Getting Rid of Heavy Metals and Toxic Substances in Wastewater Operations: The Case of Soba / Khartoum Treatment Plant

Growing demand for and limitations to traditional water sources (surface-groundwater) led to the development of non-conventional sources. This research assessed the waste stabilisation pond treatment system built in the Green Belt, GB, in Khartoum state and the prototype model that was constructed simulating the same dimensions of the GB plant. The study took into account the system’s hydraulic symmetry, rheological simulation, organic loadings conditions and some parameters applied at the station. Wastewater reaching the GB station is domestic in addition to industrial waste from tanning plants and Khartoum’s coin manufacturing industry. Monthly laboratory analysis results for heavy metals and toxic substances at the GB station and model farm were monitored and recorded for two years. Attained values were not in conformity with the specifications of treated effluent reuse and reclamation, particularly in the GB station. This research applied a case study to upgrade wastewater treatment in an experimental field model using natural means. This is through introduction of a system of aquatic plants as an advanced biological treatment following natural ponds. The achieved results indicated high-quality of wastewater treatment with low-cost, which is suitable for agricultural irrigation or other beneficial uses without exposing stakeholders to any health risks or environmental ailments. Shouldered research advocates broader implementation of this advanced biological treatment system for gray wastewater using vegetation and plants. This is due to sound socio-economic rewards and ease of operation and maintenance. The purpose of re-use of such treated effluent reduces health risks and ill-environmental impacts. This is besides supports to traditional water sources, contribution to integrated water resources management and mitigation of any potential environmental pollution.