Title:
LIMESTONE MINING'S EFFECT ON THE MARUNI RIVER MANOKWARI REGENCY'S WATER QUALITY, WEST PAPUA

Authors:
Filex Moris Merabano , Keliopas Krey , Ai Siti Patimah, Indonesia

Abstract:
One important economic activity in Manokwari Regency West Papua Indonesia is Maruni limestone mining. However, the surrounding ecology particularly the Maruni River's surface water, has been significantly impacted by this mining operation. The goal of this study was to assess the Maruni River's surface water quality in order to determine the degree of environmental harm brought on by mining operations. The Water Quality Index was measured using three parameters (Total Suspended Solids, Turbidity, and Dissolved Oxygen) at three locations along the Maruni River in september 2024 as part of a quantitative research methodology. With an index ranging from 2.26 to 3.78, the investigation of the river's water quality status revealed that it was somewhat contaminated. The Maruni River does not have adequate carrying capacity for the Total Suspended Solids and Turbidity parameters, which are indicators of river water quality. This is due to increased pollution caused by bridge construction and sand mining activities around the river. To address the environmental damage caused by the Maruni limestone mining operation, an integrated coastal management program is needed to achieve sustainability in the affected areas