Kualitas Mikrobiologi Air Sungai Batang Toru, Sumatera Utara Berdasarkan Bakteri Indikator Pencemaran (Total Coliform, Fecal Coliform, Dan Escherichia Coli

Abstract

The Batang Toru River is the main river in South Tapanuli Regency, North Sumatra, and is utilized for domestic, agricultural, and gold mining activities. This literature review aimed to identify the profile of bacterial indicators of water pollution, namely Total Coliform, Fecal Coliform, and Escherichia coli, analyze pollution trends from 2017 to 2024, and propose appropriate mitigation strategies. The study employed a systematic literature review of national and international scientific publications. The results showed that Fecal Coliform levels in 2020 ranged from 1,210 to 1,580 MPN/100 mL, exceeding the Class I water quality standard, while the 2017–2019 period was classified as lightly polluted, with Total Suspended Solids (TSS) as the dominant parameter. Escherichia coli was detected at low levels, whereas data on Total Coliform in the Batang Toru River remain limited, representing a significant research gap. Comparisons with other rivers in Indonesia indicate that pollution levels are strongly influenced by anthropogenic activities, particularly settlements and agriculture. Recommended mitigation strategies include bioremediation using indigenous bacteria, improved sanitation, livestock waste management, and regular water quality monitoring.