How harmful is the presence of Arsenic and Fluoride in water?
People directly affected and at risk incase of fluoride & arsenic in India is estimated at 25.1 & 71.3 m respectively. Fluoride poses a serious health hazard affecting 25 million people spread over more than 200 districts in 17 states. Its effect is severe among young and old. Skeletal and dental fluorosis at advanced stage is irreversible. The population at risk is estimated to be around 66 million. In the capital, Delhi, over 30% of the area is contaminated with fluoride. Arsenic contamination in ground water exceeding the permissible limit of 0.05 ppm in West Bengal has been a major health hazard affecting a substantial population in 4000 habitations in 67 blocks of 8 districts. Population at risk is estimated at 5.3 million. While population showing arsenic skin related manifestations is estimated to be 2 lakh. the government has outlaid a total of Rs. 347.67 crore for control of arsenic contamination. Similarly, number of people at risk due to Arsenic in Bangladesh is 35–77 millio
