Relevance: GS-3 (Environment, Pollution, Public Health) • Source: CPCB, Indian Express
The Central Pollution Control Board’s (CPCB) latest assessment shows severe heavy-metal and chemical contamination in Delhi’s groundwater, with uranium levels among the highest in India, alongside lead, nitrate, fluoride, and salinity-related issues. Over one-third of tested samples exceeded permissible limits.
Major Contaminants, Sources & Impacts
| Contaminant | Major Source | Health Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Uranium | Geogenic; over-extraction | Kidney toxicity, cancer risk |
| Lead | Old pipelines, industrial waste | Neurotoxicity in children |
| Nitrate | Fertilizers, sewage intrusion | Blue baby syndrome |
| Fluoride | Natural geology | Bone deformities, dental issues |
| Arsenic | Industrial discharge | Skin lesions, cancer |
| Iron | Corroded pipelines | Stomach discomfort |
| Salinity | Over-pumping, irrigation return flow | Reduced soil fertility, hypertension risk |
Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
- India’s apex pollution regulator, set up in 1974 under the Water Act, 1974; also empowered by the Air Act, 1981.
- Functions under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
- Sets national pollution standards, monitors air, water, noise quality, and coordinates with SPCBs.
- Publishes key reports on air quality, groundwater, river pollution, and waste management.
Problems in Other States (CPCB 2025)
| State | Noted Contaminant Issue |
|---|---|
| Punjab, Haryana | High uranium concentration |
| Rajasthan, Gujarat | High fluoride; high salinity |
| Assam | High lead content |
| Uttar Pradesh | Nitrate contamination from agriculture |
| Tamil Nadu (coastal) | Salinity intrusion into aquifers |
UPSC Prelims Practice Question
Q. Excess nitrate in drinking water is associated with:
A) Fluorosis
B) Blue Baby Syndrome
C) Minamata Disease
D) Itai-itai Disease
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