The presence of contaminants, including heavy metals like arsenic, have been reported in drinking water beyond prescribed limits in select isolated pockets of Assam.
This was informed by Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Raj Bhushan Choudhary, in the Lok Sabha on Thursday.
In a written response to Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi’s questions on reports of arsenic contamination in groundwater in parts of Assam, the minister said that data from the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) shows that groundwater in the state is largely potable.
However, he acknowledged that certain local areas have recorded contamination exceeding prescribed drinking water standards.
Raj Bhushan Choudhary said, “Localised occurrences of certain contaminants, including heavy metals like arsenic, beyond the limits prescribed for drinking water use have been reported in some isolated pockets.”
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“Though consumption of groundwater for drinking purposes containing arsenic above the permissible limits over a sustained period may cause adverse health effects, further detailed studies are required to establish a clear linkage between arsenic contamination in groundwater and diseases in Assam,” he added.
The Minister explained that the CGWB, under the Jal Shakti Ministry, conducts groundwater quality monitoring and scientific studies across the country using approved standard operating procedures.
He also added that arsenic contamination is primarily geogenic in nature, originating from soil and rock formations, which can dissolve into groundwater and eventually enter the food chain.
Choudhary also cautioned that long-term consumption of groundwater containing arsenic above permissible levels could lead to adverse health effects.
He further noted that water is a state subject and the responsibility for groundwater management, including initiatives to improve quality and mitigate contamination, lies primarily with the state governments.
He added that the Centre supports states through technical aid and financial assistance through various schemes and projects.
