Contamination of Urban Sediment by Harmful Heavy Metals in High Vehicular Traffic Zones of Juliaca, Peru

Alfaro-Alejo R.; Paredes R.P.; Laqui W.; Alfaro-Vilca V.D.; Belizario-Quispe G. · Environment and Ecology Research (2025) · DOI: 10.13189/eer.2025.130305

Resumen

The accumulation of pollutants derived from vehicular activity, whether on paved roads or within recreational urban areas, constitutes a significant source of environmental contamination, particularly in densely trafficked zones. This study aimed to assess the levels of heavy metal contamination in sediments and road runoff collected from high-traffic neighborhoods in the city of Juliaca, Peru. Heavy metal concentrations were determined in three road sediment samples, two urban park soil samples, and three runoff samples collected during precipitation events. The results were evaluated against national and international environmental quality standards for sediments and water. Daily vehicle counts at the sampled sites ranged from 6,128 to 8,464 vehicles per day. Lead (Pb) exhibited moderate contamination levels based on the geo-accumulation index, while other analyzed metals remained within non-contaminated thresholds. In contrast, runoff samples revealed elevated concentrations of Zn, Cu, and Pb, with the descending concentration order of Zn > Cu > Pb > Co > As > Ni > Cr > Cd, surpassing national Environmental Quality standards (ECA) for surface water. These findings indicate a significant presence of heavy metals, particularly in stormwater runoff, and emphasize that sedimentary Pb levels exceed internationally accepted guidelines. The persistent presence of elevated heavy metal concentrations in urban runoff underscores the need for preventative and remedial measures in urban green spaces, transportation corridors, and stormwater infrastructure to mitigate potential environmental and public health risks.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional del Altiplano