Authors: Harshita Sharma, Saniya, Dr. Rishabh Bhardwaj
Abstract: Heavy metal contamination in groundwater represents a critical environmental and public health challenge globally. This study assessed the concentrations and spatial distribution of four priority heavy metals—Nickel (Ni), Arsenic (As), Mercury (Hg), and Uranium (U)—in water sources across Muzaffarnagar and Shamli districts of western Uttar Pradesh, India. Water samples were collected from diverse sources including residential borewells, hand pumps in agricultural areas, and surface water bodies during 2025-26. Physicochemical parameters (pH, hardness, dissolved organic carbon, chemical oxygen demand) and heavy metal concentrations were analyzed using standardized methods including EDTA titration, UV-persulfate oxidation, and atomic absorption spectroscopy. Results revealed that Nickel concentrations ranged from 0.12 to 0.35 mg/L (50% exceeding WHO limit of 0.07 mg/L), Arsenic from 0.005 to 0.030 mg/L (75% exceeding 0.01 mg/L limit), Mercury from 0.003 to 0.007 mg/L, and Uranium from 0.01 to 0.05 mg/L (50% exceeding 0.03 mg/L limit). Surface water and urban groundwater showed the highest contamination levels. The findings indicate significant anthropogenic influence from industrial effluents, agricultural runoff, and domestic sewage, compounded by natural geogenic sources. Statistical analysis revealed moderate correlations between metals, suggesting common mobilization mechanisms. This study provides critical baseline data for water resource management and highlights the urgent need for monitoring, treatment infrastructure, and public health interventions in the study region.
DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20322000
