Fluoride Contamination Crisis: Excessive fluoride levels in Sonbhadra, Uttar Pradesh’s groundwater are causing a public health emergency.
Source: Granite deposits leach fluoride into the groundwater, making it unsafe.
Extent: 120 hamlets with approximately 2 lakh people are affected. Fluoride levels exceed the safe limit (1-1.5 mg/L), reaching 2 mg/L or higher in some areas.
Health Impacts: High fluoride causes dental and skeletal fluorosis, joint pain, bone deformities, and mobility issues. Children show yellow stains on teeth.
Government Response: Jal Nigam report confirmed contamination. The administration is providing treated water via pipelines and tankers. Jal Jeevan Mission and Har Ghar Jal Yojana aim to ensure safe drinking water.
Past Efforts Failed: Earlier water treatment plants managed by local bodies failed due to lack of maintenance and technical expertise.
Current Status: Only some affected hamlets receive clean water. Pipeline installation is ongoing, with expected completion in a few months.
Community Impact: Residents suffer from fluorosis symptoms. Water scarcity persists despite government efforts. Locals rely on contaminated borewells.
Water Testing: Jal Sakhis are trained to test water samples regularly using kits and upload results to a mobile application
Widespread Issue: Similar issues reported in other villages.
