An overview of carcinogenic pollutants in groundwater of India

Groundwater is the major source of freshwater for irrigation, drinking, and sanitation in India. 50% of urban water requirement and 85% of rural domestic water requirements are fulfilled by groundwater. Industrialization, unmanaged dumping of waste, extensive application of pesticides and other geological metamorphic activities have led to the contamination of freshwater resources. Consumption of such polluted water poses a threat to the ecosystem and human health and also, has the potential to cause cancer. Globally as well as nationally, cancer is emerging as a high-risk disease. Scientific community worldwide faces a crucial challenge in finding its possible prevention measures and cures. Reducing the exposure to carcinogens offers the most cost-effective and long-term strategy for control of cancer. Therefore, this study aims to discuss the prevalent carcinogenic contaminants and their sources reported throughout the country in groundwater and to ponder upon the associated health risks. The possible remedial measures are also critically reviewed, which may help in finding a sustainable methodology for mitigating carcinogenic groundwater pollutants.