The Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) report shows an increase in districts with excessive nitrate contamination in groundwater, rising from 359 in 2017 to 440 in 2023, affecting more than half of India's districts.
Excessive nitrate levels can cause methemoglobinemia (reduced oxygen-carrying capacity in blood), leading to Blue Baby Syndrome in infants
It also harm aquatic ecosystems by promoting algal blooms in lakes and ponds
19.8% of groundwater samples tested had nitrates above safe limits, a slight improvement from 21.6% in 2017.
Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu showed the highest levels of nitrate contamination, with 49%, 48%, and 37% of samples exceeding the limit.
Geological factors in regions like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat contribute to consistent nitrate issues, while regions in central and southern India are seeing increasing nitrate levels.
Intensive agriculture has been linked to higher nitrate levels in groundwater.
Other chemical contaminants, including fluoride and uranium, are also problematic, particularly in Rajasthan, Haryana, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.
Over-exploited groundwater blocks are more likely to have excessive chemical contaminants.
60.4% of India's groundwater is being extracted at rates higher than its replenishment, but 73% of groundwater blocks are in the 'safe' zone, meaning they are replenishing adequately.
While India has a solid groundwater monitoring system, there is a lack of action from States to address the findings
More awareness programs and leadership involvement are needed to tackle the crisis.
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