Arsenic in Groundwater
Source: PIB
GS III: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment
Overview
- News in Brief
- Steps taken by Central Government
- About Arsenic
- Central Ground Water Board (CGWB)
Why in the News?
Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) generates groundwater quality data of the country including Tamil Nadu on a regional scale as part of its groundwater quality monitoring program and various scientific studies.
News in Brief
- These studies indicate the occurrence of Arsenic in groundwater beyond permissible limits (as per BIS) for human consumption in isolated pockets in various States / UTs.
- Arsenic has been reported in parts of 230 districts in 25 States.
- Arsenic contamination is understood to be of geogenic origin, resulting from the release of Arsenic from soil/aquifer matter under conducive conditions.
- Since, arsenic contamination in groundwater is geogenic in origin, reducing the level of arsenic in groundwater water is not feasible on a large scale.
Steps taken by Central Government
- CGWB is successfully constructing arsenic-free wells in arsenic-affected areas using the cement sealing technology.
- The government of India, in partnership with States, has been implementing the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) since August 2019 to provide a potable tap water supply of prescribed quality.
- Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation launched a National Water Quality Sub-Mission (NWQSM) on 22nd March 2017 as a part of the National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP), which has now been subsumed under JJM, to provide safe drinking water to 27,544 arsenic/fluoride affected rural habitations in the country.
- AMRUT- 2.0 was launched on 01st October 2021 for the period of 05 years (FY 2021-22 to 2025-26), to provide universal coverage of water supply through functional household tap connections.
About Arsenic
Arsenic is a chemical element with the symbol As and atomic number 33. It belongs to group 15 (formerly Group V-A) of the periodic table, along with nitrogen, phosphorus, antimony, and bismuth.
Arsenic is a metalloid, exhibiting properties of both metals and nonmetals.
Occurrence
- Arsenic is found in the Earth’s crust and is often associated with minerals containing other elements such as sulfur, iron, and copper.
- It can be found in various forms, including arsenic trioxide, arsenopyrite, and realgar.
Allotropes
- Arsenic has several allotropes, including yellow, black, and grey arsenic.
- Yellow arsenic is the most stable form at room temperature, while grey arsenic is the most reactive.
Applications
- Historically, arsenic has been used in various applications, including as a poison, wood preservative, and in the production of certain alloys.
- However, due to its toxicity, many of its uses have been phased out or significantly reduced.
Toxicity
- Arsenic is highly toxic to humans.
- Inorganic arsenic compounds are more toxic than organic ones.
- Long-term exposure to even low levels of arsenic can lead to serious health issues, including skin lesions, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurological effects.
Sources of Exposure
- Arsenic exposure can occur through contaminated water, food, and air.
- In some regions, groundwater may naturally contain high levels of arsenic, posing a risk to communities relying on such water sources.
Environmental Impact
- Arsenic contamination is a significant environmental concern.
- Industrial activities, mining, and the use of arsenic-containing pesticides have contributed to environmental arsenic pollution.
Regulations
- Many countries have established regulations and guidelines to limit arsenic exposure in drinking water and certain products.
- Efforts are ongoing to mitigate arsenic contamination and protect public health.
Central Ground Water Board (CGWB)
The Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) is a government organization in India that operates under the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation. The primary objective of CGWB is to facilitate scientific and sustainable development and management of groundwater resources in the country.
Key points about the Central Ground Water Board
- Establishment: The CGWB was established in 1970. It functions as the national apex agency for hydrogeological studies, groundwater resource assessment, and management.
- Functions:
- Groundwater Resource Assessment: CGWB conducts studies and assessments to determine the availability and quality of groundwater in different regions of the country.
- Monitoring and Regulation: The board monitors groundwater levels and quality across various states and union territories. It also regulates and advises on the development of groundwater resources.
- Research and Development: CGWB is involved in research and development activities related to groundwater, including the development of technologies for the artificial recharge of groundwater.
- Data Management: The board collects, compiles, and disseminates groundwater data. This information is crucial for policymakers, researchers, and planners involved in water resource management.
- National Aquifer Mapping and Management Program (NAQUIM): CGWB has been implementing the National Aquifer Mapping and Management Program to map aquifers, assess groundwater quality, and develop management plans for the sustainable use of groundwater resources.
- Artificial Recharge of Groundwater: CGWB promotes the artificial recharge of groundwater through various measures, such as the construction of check dams, percolation tanks, and other structures to enhance groundwater storage.
- Regulatory Functions: The board provides technical guidelines and recommendations for the regulation of groundwater extraction to prevent over-exploitation and depletion of aquifers.
- Public Awareness: CGWB conducts awareness programs to educate the public about the importance of groundwater conservation and sustainable use.
- Collaboration: The board collaborates with various state government agencies, research institutions, and international organizations to exchange knowledge and expertise in the field of groundwater management.
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