Assessment of Radiological and Chemical Risk due to Natural Radionuclides and Heavy Metals in Water, Soil and Food

Abstract

With the growing global concern regarding environmental pollution, it is essential to comprehend its effects with timely monitoring. The objective of this study is to measure the concentrations of natural radionuclides such as 238 U, 232 Th and 40 K in addition to heavy metals in the water and food to analyze the potential health risks to the population of Mansa district, located within the cancer belt of Punjab which is distinguished for its association with cotton cultivation, earning it the moniker ’area of white gold’. The fertiliser usage is high in the study area. The study utilizes comprehensive assessment techniques that encompasses probabilistic approach as well as deterministic approach for water contamination to evaluate the corresponding health risks. Moreover, biokinetic modelling of uranium resulting from ingestion of uranium contaminated water is performed to assess the retention of uranium in the human body. The natural radiolonuclides are measured for both soil and food. The heavy metals analysis is also carried out for wheat samples. The research findings indicate a high level of uranium and cadmium contamination of groundwater in Mansa district, Punjab (India), raising concerns regarding safety of its utilisation for domestic purposes. Although the wheat samples have cadmium concentration above permissible limits set by Kent but the values are below Indian permissible limits. The activity of natural radionuclides 226 Ra, 232 Th and 40 K in soil samples are within permissible limits whereas the activity of 40 K in wheat samples is above permissible limit. This thesis offers significant insights into the health challenges encountered by the population of Mansa due to regular use of groundwater. By identifying key areas of concern, the study seeks to bolster initiatives aimed at enhancing environmental and health safety for the population.