Investigation of Heavy Metal Contamination in Riverine of Baddi, Himachal Pradesh

Abstract

The management of water resources is one of the essential factors as in the absence of water; lifeon the earth is not possible. The present study highlights the Heavy Metal contamination ofdifferent rivers of Baddi (H.P). The rising unplanned industrialization and their weak governancesystem adding toxic pollutants, therefore the rivers and riverine of Baddi area are degradinggradually. Heavy metals in riverine environment represent an abiding treat to human health. Theseheavy metals are not easily degradable in nature and accumulate in plants, animals and humanbodies leading to toxic effects. This study includes the six heavy metals namely Iron, Copper,Chromium, Lead, Zinc and Cadmium found in range of 0.19-2.3, 0.01-0.15, 0-0.09, 0.01-0.12, 0.01-0.12and 0-0.001 mg/l, respectively. The investigation of heavy metals can be done by using FlameAtomic Absorption Spectrometry (APHA). The overall mean concentration of heavy metals wasobserved in the following order Fe > Zn > Cu > Cr > Pd > Cd. The enhanced concentration ofcertain metals in the riverine ecosystem may be attributed due to anthropogenic contribution fromindustrial activities of the area. So it’s important to design strategies to control mismanagement ofvaluable water resources.