Nitrate contamination in groundwater and preferred treatment technology in rural India

Abstract

Understanding the impact of human activity on the levels of nitrates found in groundwater is essential. Anthropogenic sources, such as nitrogen-rich fertilizers in agriculture and animal excrement, have led to high nitrate concentrations in groundwater globally. High nitrate concentrations can cause health issues for infants, children, and adults. The Safe Water Network is working towards providing safe and affordable drinking water to communities in India, where nitrate levels in groundwater are alarmingly high. Treatment technologies such as reverse osmosis and ion exchange effectively reduce nitrate concentrations in water supplies. While the government is pursuing surface water use, it often presents higher risks of microbial contamination and elevated concentrations of contaminants from run-off. It is crucial to take measures to mitigate nitrate contamination in groundwater to ensure the health and safety of communities.Safe Water Network serves communities with safe, affordable drinking water in Telangana and Maharashtra in India, where the nitrate levels in groundwater reach up to 300 mg/l, nearly seven times the 45 mg/l limit specified in India's national drinking water standards, making nitrate reduction essential.