A concerning situation regarding water quality has come to light in Punjab. A recent report reveals that water in several parts of the state contains harmful elements such as uranium, selenium, and nitrates. This poses a looming threat to public health. In response to this, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Water Resources has issued a report expressing its deep concern over the matter.
According to the reports, hundreds of settlements across the state are grappling with the problem of contaminated water. Experts warn that the presence of heavy metals in the water could heighten the risk of several serious ailments, including cancer. The impact of this issue appears to be particularly pronounced in the Malwa region. An increase in cancer cases has been recorded in the state over the past few years, underscoring the gravity of this crisis. Elevated levels of selenium in water can lead to liver and kidney-related complications, while nitrate-laden water has a detrimental effect on children’s health.
**Varying Pollutants Across Different Districts**
The report further highlights that different types of pollutants have been detected in different districts. While some areas have recorded high levels of uranium and mercury, others have shown elevated concentrations of selenium and nitrates. Experts emphasize the urgent need to take concrete measures to address this issue promptly, thereby ensuring the availability of safe drinking water for the public.
