Heavy metal contamination in water of Indus River and its tributaries, Northern Pakistan: evaluation for potential risk and source apportionment

This study investigated the heavy metals (HM) contamination in the water of Indus River and its tributaries, northern Pakistan. Water samples (n=44) were collected along with the five geological units: Kohistan batholith, Chilas complex, Kamila amphibolites, Jijal complex, and Indian plate. Observed HM levels were within the WHO drinking water guidelines except for Ni (23.7 mu g/L) in the Jijal complex and Pb (10.6 mu g/L) at on the Indian plate. Hazard quotient (HQ) values were observed < 1, suggesting no health risk through water consumption. Statistical analyses revealed that bedrock geology plays a major role in the HM distribution in water of the study area.

Automated summary

The study revealed that heavy metal contamination in the water of Indus River and its tributaries in northern Pakistan is relatively low, with most water samples meeting the WHO drinking water guidelines. The bedrock geology plays a significant role in the distribution of heavy metals in the water of the study area.