Understanding Groundwater Contamination in India

1. What is groundwater contamination?

Groundwater contamination happens when harmful substances like chemicals, heavy metals, and microbes pollute underground water sources. These pollutants often come from sewage, industrial waste, fertilizers, and natural minerals.

2. How much of India relies on groundwater?

Over 85% of rural drinking water and nearly 65% of irrigation needs in India come from groundwater.

3. Which harmful elements are found in India’s groundwater?

Common contaminants include fluoride, arsenic, nitrates, uranium, iron, and heavy metals. These can enter water through natural deposits or due to pollution from agriculture and industry.

4. What are the health effects of these contaminants?

• Fluoride: Causes dental and skeletal fluorosis.
• Arsenic: Leads to skin lesions, cancers, and organ damage.
• Nitrates: Can cause ‘blue baby syndrome’ in infants.
• Uranium and heavy metals: Damage kidneys, bones, and nerves.

5. Which Indian states are most affected?

Contamination has been reported in Punjab, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. For example, high fluoride in Rajasthan and arsenic in West Bengal.

6. Why is this a growing problem?

Overexploitation of groundwater, overuse of fertilizers and pesticides, and lack of waste management have worsened the issue. Many water sources are unsupervised and not tested regularly.

7. Why is action difficult despite the known risks?

• Institutional fragmentation: Multiple agencies like CGWB, CPCB, Jal Shakti Ministry, and State Boards work in silos.
• Poor coordination: Scientific solutions are delayed.
• Weak enforcement: Pollution laws are poorly implemented.
• Lack of awareness: People still use contaminated sources due to limited options.

8. What solutions are being proposed?

• Improve testing and data collection.
• Promote rainwater harvesting and safe water storage.
• Regulate use of fertilizers and pesticides.
• Invest in public health monitoring.
• Strengthen laws and inter-agency coordination.

9. What makes this a national emergency?

The contamination affects millions silently. Chronic diseases are rising, especially in poor and rural regions, adding pressure to an already stretched public health system.