Water produced from power plants is one of the most important sources of water pollution, especially for areas like Baghdad, Contaminated industrial wastewater is a major environmental challenge due to the rapid growth of industries, leading to increased accumulation of harmful pollutants in water resources, the work is intended to study the impact of water generated from a power plant in the south on the level of heavy metals before and after the treatment process and after its discharge to the Tigris River. Objective is to determine the extent of heavy metals such as iron, copper, chromium, and zinc concentration in water extracted from various points and subsequently study the monthly variations of these elements with a view to assessment of water quality and efficiency of the treatment systems. Description: Water samples were collected from pre-treatment, post-treatment, and post-discharge points to the Tigris River. Measurements were carried out on a monthly basis for six months. The preparation of samples was done by filtration and preservation techniques by adding nitric acid. Results are showed that iron concentration reached its peak value of 1.70 mg/L in November 2021, while the minimum value of 0.10 mg/L was recorded in the month of October. Temporal variation: there is variation in metals on a monthly basis; for instance, zinc ranged from 0.40 mg/L during January to 2.70 mg/L during November. Standard comparison: the result was also checked against allowable values given by the World Health Organization and the Environmental Protection Agency to determine the level at which water meets the environmental standards. Heavy metal concentrations varied significantly before and after treatment, indicating unit efficiency. Iron, copper, chromium, and zinc showed reductions, though some exceeded limits, posing environmental risks. Future monitoring and improved treatment are essential to safeguard public health and the Tigris River's ecosystem. © 2025 The authors.
