In 2024, the Indian Council for Medical Research revealed alarming findings about cancer risks in Punjab. A study conducted by Punjabi University and Thapar University brought into light that residents near river drains are highly susceptible to cancer due to heavy metal contamination. The study, presented in the Lok Sabha by Prataprao Jadhav, indicated that lead, iron, and aluminium levels exceeded permissible limits set by the Central Pollution Control Board. Researchers analysed wastewater drains of the Ghaggar river, showcasing heavy metal pollution.
Study Methodology
The researchers collected samples from three drains – Sirhind Choe, Badi Nadi, and Dhakanshu Drain. Sampling occurred from October 2017 to July 2018 across different seasons. They assessed the concentration of metals including lead, cadmium, iron, aluminium, and nickel. This comprehensive analysis aimed to understand the impact of heavy metal pollution on human health.
Heavy Metal Contamination
The study found that heavy metal levels in surface water were alarmingly high. The concentration of iron and aluminium during monsoon was several times above CPCB standards. This spike indicated agricultural runoff and untreated wastewater discharge. The researchers noted that the primary source of heavy metals was untreated wastewater from industrial and domestic sources.
Health Risks
The World Health Organization classifies cadmium, nickel, and lead as carcinogenic. Exposure to these metals can occur through drinking contaminated water or skin contact during daily activities. The hazard index values for lead were greater than 1 at all sites, indicating a high risk of non-carcinogenic health issues. Notably, children faced a greater risk than adults.
Carcinogenic Risk Assessment
The researchers calculated carcinogenic risk values for lead, cadmium, and nickel. These values surpassed safe limits established by US health regulators. This suggests that residents living near the drains have ly elevated risk of developing cancer. The findings correlate with reports of increased cancer cases and other health issues in nearby villages.
Environmental Impact and Recommendations
Heavy metal pollution not only poses health risks but also degrades groundwater quality. The researchers emphasised the urgent need for management strategies to mitigate toxic contamination. Effective waste management and treatment of industrial effluents are critical to protect public health and improve water quality.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically discuss the implications of heavy metal pollution on public health in India.
- Examine the relationship between industrial waste management practices and environmental degradation.
- Analyse the impact of agricultural runoff on water quality and human health.
- Point out the significance of monitoring water quality indices in preventing health risks associated with pollution.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically discuss the implications of heavy metal pollution on public health in India.
- Heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and nickel are classified as carcinogenic, increasing cancer risk.
- Exposure routes include drinking contaminated water and skin contact during daily activities.
- High hazard index values indicate non-carcinogenic health risks, particularly for children.
- Heavy metal pollution can lead to various health issues, including neurological and developmental disorders.
- Geographical hotspots, such as Punjab, show a direct correlation between pollution and health problems.
2. Examine the relationship between industrial waste management practices and environmental degradation.
- Poor waste management practices lead to untreated industrial effluents contaminating water bodies.
- Heavy metals from industrial discharges exceed permissible limits, contributing to environmental degradation.
- Inadequate regulations and enforcement exacerbate pollution levels in affected regions.
- Industrial activities often prioritize profit over environmental protection, worsening public health risks.
- Effective waste management strategies are essential to mitigate environmental and health impacts.
3. Analyse the impact of agricultural runoff on water quality and human health.
- Agricultural runoff introduces fertilizers and pesticides, which can contaminate water sources.
- Heavy metals from runoff can accumulate in aquatic ecosystems, affecting food chains and human health.
- Seasonal variations, such as during monsoon, can exacerbate contamination levels in water bodies.
- Increased metal concentrations correlate with higher instances of health issues in nearby populations.
- Implementing sustainable agricultural practices can reduce runoff and improve water quality.
4. Point out the significance of monitoring water quality indices in preventing health risks associated with pollution.
- Regular monitoring helps identify contamination levels and sources of pollution in water bodies.
- Water quality indices provide essential data for public health risk assessments and policy-making.
- Monitoring can guide interventions and remediation efforts to protect vulnerable populations.
- Awareness of water quality issues can empower communities to advocate for cleaner environments.
- Effective monitoring is crucial for compliance with environmental regulations and standards.
