Aim of the study:
This study examines the distribution, sources, and ecological risks of heavy metal (HM) contamination in the water and sediments of the Nerodime River, located in an urbanized area of Kosovo. Acknowledging the interactions between industrial, urban, and agricultural activities, this research seeks to clarify the geographical distribution of HMs and propose sustainable management strategies and practices.

Material and methods:
Water and sediment samples were collected at six sites (M1–M6) during June and July 2024, coinciding with the peak of agricultural runoff and urban discharges. Heavy metal concentrations were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) for water samples, and ICP-MS for sediments. Statistical analyses, including one-way ANOVA, Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and Cluster Analysis, were used to identify significant differences and potential sources of pollution.

Results and conclusions:
For example, Zn concentrations reached up to 5.85 mg/L, surpassing the WHO safe limit of 4.0 mg/L by 46%, while Pb levels of 0.19 mg/L exceeded the limit of 0.01 mg/L by nearly 19 times (p < 0.05). Sediment analysis identified cadmium and lead as key contributors to ecological risk. The Geo-accumulation Index (Igeo) ranged from “unpolluted to moderate” (–0.12) up to “moderate” (2.11). In contrast, the ecological risk index (RI) values ranged from 120 to 180, indicating an overall moderate but locally significant risk from cadmium (Cd). PCA indicated strong associations among metals such as Zn, Fe, and Cu from urban and industrial runoff, with Cd linked to agricultural practices.