APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 10/12/2024

Model answer

Model Answer

Introduction

Arsenic contamination in groundwater is a significant public health and environmental concern in Assam, affecting 21 districts and over 20 lakh people. With arsenic levels exceeding the permissible limit of 10 µg/L (WHO), the issue poses severe risks to health, agriculture, and water security. Assam is the third most affected state in India after Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

Challenges Posed by Arsenic Contamination

1. Public Health Crisis:
   • Chronic exposure causes arsenicosis, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and skin lesions.
   • Increases the healthcare burden due to long-term illnesses.
2. Agricultural Impact:
   • Arsenic-contaminated water used for irrigation leads to crop contamination, affecting food safety.
   • Decreases soil fertility, reducing agricultural productivity.
3. Economic Loss:
   • Reduced workforce productivity due to health issues.
   • Increased government expenditure on healthcare and mitigation measures.
4. Limited Awareness:
   • Lack of knowledge among rural communities exacerbates health risks.

Government Initiatives

1. National Water Quality Sub-Mission (NWQSM):
   • Focuses on providing arsenic-free drinking water through piped water supply schemes.
2. Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM):
   • Ensures functional household tap connections with safe water in rural areas.
3. Arsenic Task Forces:
   • Established in affected states for monitoring and mitigation efforts.
4. Technology Deployment:
   • Installation of arsenic removal units in highly affected regions.

Measures to Address the Issue

1. Sustainable Water Management:
   • Promote rainwater harvesting and surface water use to reduce groundwater dependency.
   • Recharge groundwater through community-based watershed development.
2. Affordable Technology Deployment:
   • Scale up low-cost arsenic filtration units and real-time water quality testing kits.
3. Capacity Building and Awareness:
   • Conduct educational campaigns in rural areas on the risks of arsenic contamination.
   • Train local officials and community leaders in mitigation strategies.
4. Policy Strengthening:
   • Enforce stricter groundwater monitoring and establish accountability frameworks.
   • Integrate arsenic mitigation into broader public health policies.

Conclusion Arsenic contamination in Assam’s groundwater is a multifaceted challenge that requires coordinated efforts across governance, technology, and community engagement. By addressing gaps in awareness, infrastructure, and policy implementation, Assam can safeguard public health, ensure water security, and achieve SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being).