A recent report has revealed that high nitrate levels in groundwater are posing a serious threat to public health in 440 districts across India. Nitrates, which mainly come from fertilizers and animal waste, can be harmful, especially in agricultural areas.

Widespread Nitrate Contamination

The Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) report, titled “Annual Groundwater Quality Report – 2024,” states that 20% of the groundwater samples tested exceeded safe nitrate limits. Nitrate levels above 45 milligrams per liter (mg/l), the limit set by the World Health Organization (WHO), were found in these samples. Some states like Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu had over 40% of samples exceeding this limit.

Impact of Nitrate Pollution

Groundwater contamination with nitrates can lead to significant health risks. One major risk is blue baby syndrome, which affects infants, leading to a dangerous condition where blood cannot carry enough oxygen. Nitrate pollution is especially harmful for drinking water.

Most Affected Regions

Several districts in Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Punjab have the highest levels of nitrate contamination.

Causes of Nitrate Contamination

Excessive irrigation: Overuse of water in farming can push nitrates from fertilizers deep into the soil, affecting groundwater.

Animal waste: Poor waste management in livestock farming adds nitrates to the soil and water.

Urbanization and population growth: More people means more wastewater and sewage, which often contains high levels of nitrates.

Fluoride and Arsenic Concerns

The report also highlighted that fluoride and arsenic levels are a concern in several states. In Rajasthan, Haryana, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, fluoride levels above the safe limit were found. Arsenic contamination was seen in regions along the Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers, as well as in states like West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Bihar.

Long-term exposure to fluoride can cause fluorosis, while arsenic is linked to cancer and skin problems.

Uranium in Groundwater

Another concerning finding is the presence of uranium in groundwater. Regions like Rajasthan and Punjab have high levels of uranium, which can cause kidney damage over time. The report notes that these high uranium levels are found in areas facing serious water stress, including parts of Rajasthan, Punjab, and Gujarat.

Other Groundwater Quality Issues

Apart from nitrates, fluoride, arsenic, and uranium, the report also noted high levels of electrical conductivity in groundwater in places like Delhi, Gujarat, Punjab, and Karnataka. This indicates poor water quality, which can affect both health and the environment.

The report emphasizes the need for better water management and monitoring to address these growing issues of groundwater contamination. Steps must be taken to protect public health and prevent further damage to the environment.