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West Bengal and Bihar are the most affected states by arsenic contamination of groundwater.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) is examining the issue of rice being susceptible to arsenic contamination due to its absorption of arsenic from water and soil.
Arsenic contamination issues
The contamination is primarily found in groundwater sources, which many communities rely on for drinking water.
Arsenic contamination in groundwater affects agricultural soil, leading to arsenic entering the food chain, especially through crops like rice.
Rice, being a water-intensive crop, absorbs more arsenic from contaminated water and soil, resulting in significant build-up of arsenic in its grains.
The transport of arsenic-contaminated rice to non-endemic areas could spread arsenic exposure, increasing health risks in populations outside affected zones.
Certain vegetables, especially roots (e.g., beet, radish) and leafy vegetables (e.g., spinach, fenugreek), tend to accumulate higher arsenic compared to fruits and grains.
While natural sources play a significant role, human activities like mining, industrial processes, and the use of arsenic-containing pesticides can also contribute to localized contamination.
Long-term intake of arsenic-contaminated water leads to arsenic poisoning or arsenicosis, with cancer of the skin, bladder, kidney, or lung or diseases of the skin
Arsenic
Arsenic is a naturally occurring substance that can be found in air, water, and soil.
It can also be released into the environment by certain agricultural and industrial processes, such as mining and metal smelting.
It is a chemical element in the nitrogen group (Group 15 of the periodic table), existing in both gray and yellow crystalline forms.
Arsenic comes in two forms (organic and inorganic). It is highly toxic in its inorganic form.
Arsenic is a well-known poison. Arsenic compounds are sometimes used as rat poisons and insecticides, but their use is strictly controlled.
Arsenic is used as a doping agent in semiconductors (gallium arsenide) for solid-state devices.
It is also used in bronzing, pyrotechnics, and for hardening shot.
Arsenic compounds can be used to make special glass and preserve wood.
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