Rapid urbanization profoundly affects surface water quality in lower-income countries, often extending pressure on resources beyond urban areas. This study assesses the impact of urbanization on surface water quality in Kim Dong district, highlighting its broader implications for the Red River Delta. The demands of urban systems significantly strain natural resources, notably water, impacting both human consumption and environmental sustainability. With a focus on less developed regions where water infrastructure may be limited, ensuring sufficient water supply as these areas grow presents a complex challenge. The economic and population growth in Kim Dong district has heightened water demand in recent years. Despite ample water sources, Kim Dong district is facing surface water pollution, leading to shortages for domestic, agricultural, and industrial use. This study aims to evaluate surface water quality using the Water Quality Index (WQI) and examine urbanization's impact, employing GIS to map pollution loads across communes. Results of the study reveal significant water quality deterioration, notably in areas with high population density and industrial concentration, causing severe pollutant loads in rivers. Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) and Discriminant Analysis (DA) was utilized to classify communes into three distinct clusters based on pollutant loads, emphasizing Luong Bang town and adjacent communes as high-load areas. The study demonstrates a strong positive correlation between population density and pollutant loads, indicating the profound impact of urbanization on water quality. Our research calls for strict monitoring of discharge sources, especially from industries and residential areas, emphasizing compliance with environmental regulations. It recommends regular drainage system maintenance, comprehensive environmental assessments for future development plans, and consistent efforts to mitigate urbanization's adverse effects on surface water in Kim Dong district. These measures aim to sustainably manage water resources and safeguard environmental integrity amidst rapid urbanization.
