CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Nashik. Amid preparations for the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela in Nashik, Maharashtra, a case has emerged of toxic chemicals being found in borewell water. Following complaints of contaminated borewell water in the Dattanagar area near the Ambad industrial zone, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance of the matter. The commission has issued a notice to the Maharashtra chief secretary, seeking a detailed report within two weeks. The Maharashtra State Pollution Control Board has also been asked to respond in the matter.
According to media reports, several residents in the area have been receiving yellow-coloured contaminated water for nearly two months. It is suspected that groundwater may have been polluted due to leakage of chemical waste from nearby industrial units. Preliminary laboratory testing recorded hexavalent chromium at 50.3 milligrams per litre in one water sample. The prescribed limit for chromium in drinking water is 0.05 milligrams per litre. On this basis, the quantity recorded in the sample has been reported to be nearly 1,000 times higher than the prescribed limit.
However, the condition of groundwater across the entire area or the exact source of pollution cannot be confirmed on the basis of one sample. A wider investigation and sampling from different locations are necessary for this.
Reports said local residents have complained of skin rashes, itching, blisters and other health problems. Concerns have grown over health risks linked to contact with contaminated water. Affected families say that, due to the lack of adequate clean water, they are forced to depend on borewell water even for daily household work. Some families have to buy clean water for drinking, adding to their household expenses. Independent medical examination is also necessary to confirm any link between the health complaints and the chemicals present in the water.
The National Human Rights Commission has said that if the facts reported in the media are found to be correct, the matter raises a serious human rights concern. On this basis, a detailed report has been sought from the Maharashtra chief secretary. The state pollution control board has also been asked to provide information on the pollution and related action. The administration now faces the challenge of identifying the source of the contaminated water, providing safe water to affected families and taking action as per rules against the industrial units responsible.
Concern has increased ahead of the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela in Nashik, where a large number of devotees are expected to arrive. The Godavari river remains a major centre for ritual bathing and other events. In this context, reports of groundwater pollution have also raised questions about the quality of the river and nearby water sources. However, contamination found in a borewell does not by itself confirm that the Godavari river water is polluted. Separate scientific testing of the river, drains and related water sources is needed. Ensuring safe drinking water, regular testing and control at the source of pollution will be important for the administration before the Kumbh Mela.
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