Arsenic Threat Lurks in Multan Water: Comprehensive Survey Urged
Arsenic contamination has been reported in various areas of Multan, but its true extent remains unclear due to variations in sampling locations, water sources, groundwater depths, and testing periods, according to Saima Gul, a research officer specializing in water testing.
Pakistan's permissible limit for arsenic in drinking water is 50 parts per billion (ppb), while the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a stricter limit of 10 ppb. Higher arsenic concentrations have been detected in specific areas of Multan, emphasizing the need for a thorough city-wide survey to determine the scope and distribution of the issue.
Contamination is not solely determined by location but also factors like the type of water source and groundwater depth. "There is no single representative maximum arsenic concentration for the entire city," Saima Gul explains. "Levels can vary significantly depending on the source, location, and groundwater depth."
She highlights the importance of providing details alongside any reported maximum concentration, including:
- Sampling location
- Type of water source
- Sampling date
- Groundwater depth
Water-quality monitoring in Multan includes testing for WASA-supplied water, groundwater, tube wells, household sources, public and commercial filtration plants, and other drinking water sources. The testing frequency varies based on the parameter, water source, and contamination risk.
Public-sector institutions like the Public Health Engineering Department (PHE), Punjab Food Authority laboratories, and the PCRWR Soil and Water Testing Laboratory offer water-quality testing facilities.
Saima Gul notes that while access to a water source may seem to guarantee safe drinking water, reliable estimates of the population with access to chemically safe water require updated water quality data linked to population coverage.
The arsenic contamination in Multan appears to have a significant geological component, suggesting natural processes as a potential source of arsenic in groundwater. However, industrial activities, agricultural practices, and wastewater infiltration might also contribute to local contamination.
Long-term exposure to inorganic arsenic can lead to severe health issues, including skin, cardiovascular, and neurological problems, kidney and liver damage, and potential reproductive or developmental effects. Chronic exposure is also linked to an increased risk of certain cancers.