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Journal of Water Pollution & Purification Research

A Critical Evaluation of Mercury Contamination in Groundwater of Punjab

  1. Hardev Singh Virk

Abstract

Groundwater in Punjab State has been over-exploited for irrigation purposes during the last few decades. As a consequence, it has been contaminated with heavy metals including Mercury, which is highly toxic for human health. The permissible limit for Mercury in groundwater is 0.001 mg/L (1ppb). Mercury concentration in groundwater has been estimated using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) which is calibrated using a standard protocol. Ferozepur district in Punjab is a “Hot Spot” for Mercury contamination. The range of Mercury contamination varies from 0.001 mg/L to 0.038 mg/L in Punjab groundwaters. It is of geogenic origin but its source needs to be investigated to determine contribution of anthropogenic sources such as fertilizers, pesticides and coal-based thermal plants in Punjab. Tarn Taran district has recorded high values of Mercury in its groundwater after Ferozepur district. Department of Water Supply and Sanitation (DWSS) Reports of Punjab Government have been studied for assessment of health hazards to public. A critical examination of DWSS reports reveals that these are contradictory and confusing for general public. Mitigation measures need to be adopted for removal of Mercury from groundwater sources in Punjab.

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