Distribution and risk estimation of potentially toxic elements in potable groundwater of Kumaun Himalaya, India

The presence of potentially toxic elements (PTE) in potable water can lead to adverse effects on human health upon consumption. This paper presents the distribution and health hazards of seven PTE such as chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), arsenic (As), molybdenum (Mo), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb) in potable groundwater sources of the foothill region in the Kumaun Himalaya, India. The concentrations of PTE in potable groundwater samples were measured using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICPMS). The pollution indices and health risks were assessed from the measured concentrations to examine the quality of analyzed groundwater. The concentrations (μg L−1) of Cr, Ni, As, Mo, Cd, Hg, and Pb in the analyzed groundwater samples were observed in the range of 3.281 to 122.240, 0.919 to 13.708, 0.101 to 5.862, 0.102 to 2.437, Below Detection Limit (BDL) to 1.368, BDL to 0.188 and 0.023 to 25.787, respectively. Moreover, Cr concentration in 41 % of analyzed samples was detected above the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and World Health Organization (WHO) safe limits. The Pb content in 8 % of analyzed samples was detected above WHO and BIS safe limits. The computed values of pollution indices and estimated risks indicate that a majority of investigated water sources are safe for drinking and other purposes. [Display omitted] •Cr, Ni, As, Mo, Cd, Hg and Pb contents were measured in the potable groundwater of Kumaun Himalaya, India.•Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICPMS) was employed for elemental analysis.•Cr and Pb contents were observed above the BIS and WHO limits in 41 % and 8 % of the analyzed samples, respectively.•The normality test reveals that the elemental concentrations are non-normally distributed in the study area.•The majority of analyzed water samples are safe for drinking and other domestic purposes.