Dissolved trace elements in Hooghly (Ganges) River Estuary, India: Risk assessment and implications for management.

摘要: Abstract The study presents a spatio-seasonal distribution of 13 trace elements in the surface water (0–5 cm) along north–south gradient Hooghly River Estuary, India, and subsequently evaluates human health risk by adopting USEPA standards. An overall homogeneous spatial was pronounced, whereas an irregular inconsistent seasonal pattern were recorded for majority elements. concentration range (μg/l) their relative variability obtained as follows decreasing order: Al (55,458–104,955) > Fe (35,676–78,427) > Mn (651.76–975.78) > V (85.15–147.70) > Si (16.0–153.88) > Zn (26.94–105.32) > Cr (21.61–106.02) > Ni (19.64–66.72) > Cu (34.70–65.80) > Pb (26.40–37.48) > Co (11.16–23.01) > As (0.10–8.20) > Cd (1.19–5.53). Although Pb, Ni, Cr, Al, Fe, Mn exceeded WHO prescribed threshold limit drinking water, Metal Pollution Index values (8.02–11.86) superseded upper endorsing adverse impact on biota. studied justified to have non-carcinogenic derived from hazard quotient index values. However, As, Cd, Cr cancer (10−4), thereby leading carcinogenic concern both children adult population groups, where are more susceptible than adults. Hence, evaluation bioavailable fractions is required proper management this stressed fluvial system.