Abstract
We investigated the spatial distribution and severity of groundwater arsenic contamination in three previously un-studied villages located near the confluence of the Rivers Ganges and Sone, within the Maner block of Patna district in the Bihar State, India. We also gathered information on the demographic, socioeconomic and health issues of local residents in order to identify at-risk populations due to the exposure to elevated concentrations of arsenic. Arsenic concentrations were measured in 157 drinking water sources, which were tested using field-tests kits. Spatial patterns in arsenic distribution were compared with local physiographic and hydrogeologic parameters. Arsenic levels exceeding the WHO and the BIS standards (10 μg/L and 50 μg/L respectively) were found in all three villages, with a maximum of 300 μg/L. The shallow aquifers (≤50 m below ground surface) and older hand pumps were found to be arsenic contaminated. The deeper aquifers (>50 m) exhibited arsenic levels within permissible limits. Elevated arsenic levels are observed close to the River Ganges. However, a moderate (r = 0.240, p = 0.031) positive correlation with the surface water flow direction indicates that arsenic migrates from south to north and from west to east in the study area. This suggests that River Sone alluvium is a potential source of arsenic contamination in Bihar.
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