| Popis: |
Present study sketched to quantify heavy metals (Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Pb, Cd, As) in sediment samples (Dry and Rainy season) of an industrially affected river namely Shitalakshya by Energy Dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) technique. Different geochemical indices and multivariate statistical analysis were applied to define the accumulation, source and level of metal pollution in the sediment samples and probabilistic health risk implications due to dermal contact of sediment was also evaluated. Study revealed mean heavy metal (HM) concentrations in a sequence of Mn > Zn > Cu > Cr > Ni > Pb > As > Cd for both the seasons and almost all the elements were found within the suggestive standard value by various agencies with an exception of Cd and As. Enrichment factor (EF), geo-accumulation index (Igeo), contamination factor (CF) and pollution load index (PLI) indicated a high level of contamination by HM and a moderate level of Ecological risk was assessed for both the season. Hazard Index (HI), known as non-carcinogenic health risk for all the elements studied found bellow 1, indicating no harm for health and total carcinogenic risk also revealed the safe range. Results of multivariate statistical analysis indicates, the possible sources are mostly anthropogenic which may be owing to discharge of untreated wastes from various industries, metal and waste dumping sites, oil and refinery industries, glass and ceramic industries as they are located closely to the sampling sites of the Shitalakshya river. |
