Arsenic contamination of groundwater refers to the presence of elevated levels of arsenic, a toxic metallic element, in underground water sources used for drinking, irrigation, and other domestic and industrial purposes. Arsenic, in its natural form, can be found in rocks, minerals, and soils, and easily dissolves in water, making it susceptible to groundwater contamination.
The contamination occurs primarily due to geological processes, whereby arsenic-rich minerals release the element into the groundwater. Human activities such as mining, agricultural practices, and the disposal of industrial waste can further contribute to arsenic contamination. Once groundwater becomes contaminated, it can have severe health implications for those who consume or come into contact with it.
Long-term exposure to high levels of arsenic in drinking water is associated with various health conditions, including skin lesions, cancers (such as skin, lung, bladder, and kidney cancers), cardiovascular diseases, neurodevelopmental disorders, and reproductive problems. The effects can be especially severe in areas where groundwater with elevated arsenic concentrations is the main source of drinking water.
Prevention and mitigation strategies for arsenic contamination of groundwater involve the implementation of water treatment technologies, such as filtration and adsorption, to remove or reduce arsenic levels, as well as finding alternative sources of safe water supply. Regular monitoring of groundwater quality, education and awareness programs, and policy interventions are also crucial to address this issue effectively.
