High fluoride levels detected in groundwater at 58 locations across Delhi
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New Delhi: The Delhi government has reported elevated fluoride levels in groundwater samples collected from 58 tubewells in various locations across the national capital, as revealed in a submission to the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) conducted the groundwater sampling initiative encompassing 1,256 tubewells, complying with NGT directives.
Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Bishweswar Tudu, highlighted the presence of arsenic and fluoride in groundwater across states, leading to NGT issuing notices to 28 states, Union territories, Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA), and the environment ministry. The NGT observed inadequate measures despite acknowledging the contamination.
The Delhi government's response indicates that 33 out of 56 tested tubewells in Narela and Bawana exceeded permissible fluoride limits. Additionally, 11 out of 70 tubewells in Najafgarh Zone and Nangloi exhibited elevated fluoride levels. Various locations in North Delhi, Northeast Delhi, West Delhi, and Southwest Delhi also reported high fluoride concentrations.
The Delhi government assured the NGT that the DJB has taken precautionary measures, instructing maintenance divisions to halt the water supply from affected tubewells or repurpose the water for non-drinking purposes. The city government has requested additional time from the NGT to assess arsenic concentration in the collected samples.
Fluoride occurs naturally in groundwater due to geological processes. While small amounts are beneficial, concentrations exceeding 1.5 mg/l may lead to tooth enamel staining, with higher levels causing pathological changes.
The affected states include Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Orissa, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Delhi, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and Assam.
Arsenic contamination is prevalent in states like West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Assam, with adverse health effects associated with long-term exposure. The permissible limit for arsenic is 0.01 mg/l according to the Bureau of Indian Standards. Arsenicosis resulting from prolonged exposure may lead to various health issues, including cancer and skin diseases.
The government's proactive measures aim to address and mitigate the impact of contaminated groundwater, safeguarding public health and ensuring water quality compliance.
