Published on: November 2025
ASSESSMENT OF HEAVY METAL CONTAMINATION IN GROUNDWATER AND ASSOCIATED HUMAN HEALTH RISKS
Ritu S. Mehra
Dr. Anil K. Tiwari
Horizon College of Science
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Abstract
Groundwater, a vital resource for domestic, agricultural, and industrial use, is increasingly threatened by heavy metal contamination. Heavy metals such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), and mercury (Hg) persist in aquifers due to anthropogenic and natural processes. Their toxicological significance, persistence, and bioaccumulative behavior pose severe risks to human health and ecosystems. This research assesses heavy metal contamination in groundwater, quantifies concentrations, evaluates compliance with international water quality standards, and conducts a human health risk assessment using the Hazard Quotient (HQ) and Cancer Risk Index (CRI). Samples were collected from diverse sources across a representative geographical region and analyzed using advanced instrumentation such as ICP-MS and AAS. Results reveal exceedances of permissible limits for several metals, particularly As and Pb, with spatial variability correlating to industrial zones, agricultural runoff, and geological formations. Health risk assessment indicates potential non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks, especially for children, emphasizing the need for mitigation strategies. Recommendations include regular monitoring, policy interventions, and community awareness to safeguard public health and sustainable groundwater use.
How to Cite this Paper
Mehra, R. S. (2025). Assessment of Heavy Metal Contamination in Groundwater and Associated Human Health Risks. International Journal of Creative and Open Research in Engineering and Management, <i>01</i>(01), 1-9. https://doi.org/10.55041/ijcope.v1i2.004
Mehra, Ritu. "Assessment of Heavy Metal Contamination in Groundwater and Associated Human Health Risks." International Journal of Creative and Open Research in Engineering and Management, vol. 01, no. 01, 2025, pp. 1-9. doi:https://doi.org/10.55041/ijcope.v1i2.004.
Mehra, Ritu. "Assessment of Heavy Metal Contamination in Groundwater and Associated Human Health Risks." International Journal of Creative and Open Research in Engineering and Management 01, no. 01 (2025): 1-9. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.55041/ijcope.v1i2.004.
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- •Published on: Nov 22 2025
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