INTRODUCTION:

Access to safe drinking water is a fundamental human need and a critical determinant of public health ⁹. However, the growing contamination of water sources, particularly with heavy metals, poses a substantial threat to water quality and human well-being¹⁰. As water is a vital source of life ¹⁰, its pollution is a major concern in today's world. Heavy metals, even in trace amounts, can accumulate in the human body and lead to various adverse health effects ^1,3. This issue is especially acute in regions where water resources are scarce or poorly managed, necessitating careful monitoring and assessment, as outlined in the "Discussion" section.

In the Indian state of Rajasthan, where groundwater is a crucial source of drinking water¹¹, the assessment of heavy metal contamination is of paramount importance. This reliance on groundwater, coupled with increasing industrialization and agricultural activities, heightens the risk of heavy metal contamination, directly linking to the concerns explored in the "Literature Review" section.

This study focuses on the chemical analysis of heavy metal of drinking water quality in the Ramgarh, Mahwa region of Rajasthan, with a specific emphasis on the presence and concentration of heavy metals. As shown in the "Methodology" section, by employing inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry², this research aims to: 1) determine the levels of key heavy metals in drinking water sources; 2) compare the findings with established water quality standards, such as those set by the World Health Organization and the Bureau of Indian Standards⁶; and 3) evaluate the potential health risks associated with heavy metal exposure in the region. The work of in the Jaipur and Ajmer districts is particularly relevant, as it highlights the presence of lead, selenium, and mercury exceeding WHO guidelines in some locations in Rajasthan^2,27. Furthermore, their research identifies both anthropogenic and geogenic sources of heavy metals, providing a valuable framework for source apportionment in the Ramgarh, Mahwa region. Approximately 30%, 55%, and 15% of the houses studied had a high, moderate, and low risk from prolonged exposure to heavy metals, respectively¹.

Moreover, the TEST REPORT¹² emphasizes the importance of regular testing. The findings of this study, as presented in the "Results" section, will contribute to a better understanding

Heavy Metals:

Heavy metals are a category of metallic elements characterized by their relatively high density, atomic weight, and atomic number¹³. While the definition can vary based on context, these elements typically include transition metals, some metalloids, lanthanides, and actinides¹³. Common examples encountered in environmental research include lead, aluminium, copper, zinc, iron, manganese, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, and silver^3,14.

Figure 1. Heavy Metal found in water

The presence of heavy metals in drinking water sources is a matter of significant concern¹⁵. While a few heavy metals serve as essential micronutrients at low concentrations, many lack any known biological function and can be toxic to humans and other organisms even at trace levels¹⁶. Heavy metal contamination in water can originate from various sources, such as natural geological deposits, industrial discharges, agricultural runoff, and mining activities^3,15. The toxicity, persistence, non-biodegradability, and accumulative properties of heavy metals make them a major global concern¹⁷.

Exposure to heavy metals through drinking water can pose substantial health risks, including damage to the nervous system, kidneys, and liver, as well as an increased risk of certain cancers³. Therefore, the monitoring and assessment of heavy metal concentrations in drinking water sources are crucial for safeguarding public health. Depending on the specific metal, its concentration, and the duration of exposure, drinking water contaminated with heavy metals can lead to a range of adverse health effects^3,1.

Exposure to heavy metals through contaminated drinking water can have severe health consequences. Heavy metals are non-biodegradable and can accumulate in the body over time, leading to chronic toxicity¹⁶.

Specific health effects of heavy metals include:

· Lead: Affects red blood cell chemistry, delays normal physical and mental development in children, and increases blood pressure in some adults ¹⁸. Children under age three are most susceptible to lead poisoning ¹⁸.

· Arsenic: Long-term exposure is associated with an increased risk of cancers of the lung, skin, bladder, and kidney, as well as skin lesions ¹⁹.

· Cadmium: Can cause kidney damage and other health issues ³.

· Chromium: Has been linked to liver failure, kidney damage, gastric and skin cancer, mental disorders, and harmful effects on the reproductive system ³.

· Copper: Large doses can be dangerous to infants and people with certain metabolic disorders ¹⁸.

· Additionally, some heavy metals may increase the hazard of pathogenic organisms, as many require them to grow ¹⁸. The severity of these effects can vary depending on individual factors such as age, health status, and nutritional status ¹⁸.

PROBLEM STATEMENT:

Here is some potential problem statements related to my research paper topic, drawing from the search results and my existing document:

· The overarching problem: The Ramgarh, Mahwa region of Rajasthan, India, faces a pressing issue regarding the quality of its drinking water supply. As numerous communities in the state rely on groundwater as a primary source, this resource has become increasingly vulnerable to contamination by heavy metals from both natural geological deposits and anthropogenic activities. This heavy metal pollution poses a serious threat to the public health of the local population, necessitating a thorough investigation and the implementation of effective mitigation strategies to safeguard the well-being of the affected communities.

· A more specific problem: Previous studies conducted in Rajasthan have reported the presence of elevated levels of heavy metals such as lead, selenium, and mercury in local drinking water supplies ². However, there is a lack of comprehensive data on the specific heavy metal concentrations and their associated health risks for the population in the Ramgarh, Mahwa region. This research aims to fill this knowledge gap by providing a detailed assessment of the drinking water quality in Ramgarh, Mahwa, including an analysis of the levels of various heavy metals and an evaluation of the potential health implications for the local community.

· A problem focused on risk assessment: The Ramgarh, Mahwa region of Rajasthan faces a significant challenge regarding the quality of its drinking water supply, with the presence of heavy metals posing a serious concern for public health. While previous studies have highlighted the issue of elevated heavy metal levels in some areas of Rajasthan ²⁰, a comprehensive assessment of the associated health risks in the Ramgarh, Mahwa region is currently lacking. This research aims to address this gap by quantifying the potential carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health risks posed by exposure to heavy metals through the local drinking water sources. The findings from this investigation will inform the development of targeted interventions to safeguard the well-being of the affected communities in Ramgarh, Mahwa.

· A problem highlighting the need for monitoring: Regular and rigorous testing of drinking water quality is crucial for safeguarding public health¹². Implementing comprehensive monitoring programs is essential to ensure the consistent provision of safe drinking water to local communities⁸. This study aims to underscore the paramount importance of establishing robust systems for the routine assessment and surveillance of drinking water sources in the Ramgarh, Mahwa region.

· A problem relating to exceeding safe limits: The findings of this study reveal that the uranium levels in the majority of drinking water samples collected from the Ramgarh, Mahwa area exceed the maximum permissible limit set by the World Health Organization ²¹. This is a concerning issue that warrants immediate attention and the implementation of remedial measures to ensure the provision of safe drinking water for the local population.

To evaluate drinking water in Ramgarh, Mahwa for heavy metal contamination and health risks, informing targeted mitigation for public safety.

· Assess heavy metal levels.

· Determine potential health impacts.

· Provide data for intervention strategies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The study area, Ramgarh, Mahwa, is located in the Rajasthan state, near the Dausa district. It is a rural region with limited access to clean drinking water. Water samples were collected from various sources within the Ramgarh, Mahwa area, including boreholes. To prevent precipitation and adsorption of metals onto the container walls, the samples were filtered and acidified with nitric acid prior to analysis.

To prepare the samples for analysis, the following steps were taken ^22,23:

· Digestion: The water samples were subjected to a digestion process to extract and release the heavy metals from the sample matrix. This typically involved adding concentrated nitric acid and heating the samples. In some instances, hydrochloric acid or hydrogen peroxide was also added to facilitate the release of the metals ²².

· Pre-concentration: When the metal concentrations in the samples were found to be very low, pre-concentration techniques were employed to increase the sensitivity and detection limits of the analysis. These techniques often included solid-phase extraction or other applicable methods to concentrate the target analytes ²³.

The depth of the water table fluctuates across the study area. Heavy metals in water quality are evaluated through chemical analyses, with samples collected from diverse source. Two distinct categories of water collection points were utilized within the Ramgarh, Mahwa region:

· Category 1: Boreholes water

For the present investigation, water samples were collected from source, including borehole, located in the Ramgarh, Mahwa region.

Table 1. Primary Water Source of the Targeted Villages

Sr. No.	Village	Source Mode Use
1	Ramgarh, Mahwa	Category 1

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS:

Exposure to deficient levels of essential minerals like iron, aluminium, copper, zinc, manganese, and adequate levels of toxic elements like arsenic, cadmium, and silver in drinking water can contribute to various health issues in the human body, such as anaemia. Conversely, excessive concentrations of lead in the water supply can lead to learning disabilities, hearing impairments, and stunted growth in children. Furthermore, contaminated water, regardless of the specific contaminants, can cause a range of health problems, including unpleasant tastes and odors, elevated cancer risk, increased susceptibility to asthma attacks, and cardiovascular complications.

The presence of minerals, whether in excess or deficiency, can impact human health and lead to various diseases. (Table 2)

Table 2. Results of Heavy Metal Parameter of Drinking water

Description	Area	Unit	Category
Aluminium	A1	mg/L	BLQ (0.005)
Copper	A1	mg/L	BLQ (0.005)
Zinc	A1	mg/L	BLQ (0.01)
Iron	A1	mg/L	BLQ (0.01)
Lead	A1	mg/L	BLQ (0.005)
Manganese	A1	mg/L	BLQ (0.005)
Arsenic	A1	mg/L	BLQ (0.005)
Cadmium	A1	mg/L	BLQ (0.005)
Chromium	A1	mg/L	BLQ (0.005)
Silver	A1	mg/L	BLQ (0.005)

According to the laboratory report ²⁴, the analysis of the water sample revealed the following regarding the concentrations of heavy metals:

· Aluminium: Below the Limit of Quantification, at 0.005 mg/L

· Copper: Below the Limit of Quantification, at 0.005 mg/L

· Zinc: Below the Limit of Quantification, at 0.01 mg/L

· Iron: Below the Limit of Quantification, at 0.1 mg/L

· Lead: Below the Limit of Quantification, at 0.005 mg/L

· Manganese: Below the Limit of Quantification, at 0.005 mg/L

· Arsenic: Below the Limit of Quantification, at 0.005 mg/L

· Cadmium: Below the Limit of Quantification, at 0.005 mg/L

· Chromium: Below the Limit of Quantification, at 0.005 mg/L

· Silver: Below the Limit of Quantification, at 0.005 mg/L

The term "BLQ" indicates that the concentrations of these metals in the analysed sample were below the standard level as per the examination done by laboratory with their methods.

However, it's important to consider the following points in my discussion, based on the context from my document:

· Deficiencies and Excesses: While the tested heavy metals were below the quantification limits, the introductory section highlighted that both deficiencies and excesses of essential minerals can negatively impact human health. It is important to consider the potential implications of low levels of critical minerals such as iron, copper, and zinc. Deficiencies in these essential nutrients can lead to various health problems, including anaemia, impaired growth and development, and compromised immune function ²⁴.

· Comparison to Standards: While the tested heavy metal concentrations were below the quantification limits in this particular water sample, it remains crucial to consistently compare the water quality to established safety standards, such as those set by the World Health Organization ²⁷. Ongoing monitoring and assessment are essential to ensure the long-term safety and potability of the drinking water supply in the Ramgarh, Mahwa region.

· Limitations: While these results are encouraging, it is important to note that these are based on a single water sample. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the overall water quality in the Ramgarh, Mahwa region, further monitoring across multiple locations and time points would be necessary. Expanding the sample size and geographic coverage could provide valuable insights into the consistency and reliability of the water supply. Ongoing assessment and surveillance are crucial to ensuring the long-term safety and potability of the drinking water in this area ².

CONCLUSIONS:

According to the test report provided²⁴, the concentrations of the analysed heavy metals, such as aluminium, copper, zinc, iron, lead, manganese, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, and silver, were below the detection limits of the analytical methods used. This suggests that the levels of these metals in the examined water sample were extremely low, as detected by the laboratory's instrumentation ²⁴.

Therefore, in light of these findings, the following conclusions can be drawn:

· The low levels of heavy metals detected in the water sample are encouraging, but further investigation is still needed to fully assess the overall potability of the water supply ²⁴.

· Ongoing monitoring and assessment of the drinking water in the Mahwa region will be essential to ensure its long-term safety and suitability for consumption. Although the current analysis did not detect high concentrations of heavy metals, these contaminants can still enter water sources through various industrial and environmental pathways (2025). Consequently, continuous surveillance and evaluation of the water quality will be vital to safeguarding the health and well-being of the local population.

· The potential importance of even low levels of essential minerals should not be overlooked. Deficiencies in these crucial nutrients can contribute to a range of adverse health effects (Kushwaha and Jain, 2024)²⁴.

· The absence of detectable heavy metals in the water samples is a positive finding, yet further analysis is still needed. Even low levels of certain heavy metals can pose health risks, underscoring the importance of ongoing monitoring and assessment to ensure the long-term safety of the water supply ^25,26. While the current results are encouraging, additional investigation and potential treatment may be necessary to fully address any underlying water quality concerns in the Mahwa region.

ACKNOWLEGEMENT:

The authors express deep gratitude for the invaluable assistance and facilitation provided by The Apex University, Jaipur, Rajasthan and AGSS Analytical and Research Lab, Jaipur, Rajasthan. The authors also extend sincere appreciation to the Environmental Lab staff of The Apex University, Jaipur, Rajasthan and AGSS Analytical and Research Lab, Jaipur, Rajasthan, who contributed immensely to the successful completion of this research.

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Received on 30.04.2025 Revised on 19.05.2025

Accepted on 02.06.2025 Published on 19.06.2025

Available online from June 23, 2025

Asian J. Research Chem.2025; 18(3):129-134.

DOI: 10.52711/0974-4150.2025.00021

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