Radio-Isotopic Contamination and Environmental Health Risks in the Ghaggar River Basin, Northwestern India

Author(s): Bijendra Kumar Hoon and Ramesh Kumar Gupta

Abstract:

The accumulation of radio-isotopes in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems has emerged as a pressing global concern, particularly in densely populated and industrially active regions. This study investigates the spatial distribution and ecological consequences of radionuclides in soils of the Ghaggar River basin, a trans boundary river system that sustains agriculture and human settlements in north-western India. Soil samples collected from multiple sites were analyzed using high-resolution gamma spectrometry to determine activity concentrations of Uranium-238 (U-238), Thorium-232 (Th-232), Potassium-40 (K-40), and Cesium-137 (Cs-137). Results revealed marked spatial variability, with industrial zones exhibiting elevated concentrations of U-238 and Th-232, while urban settlements showed localized Cs-137 enrichment-indicative of anthropogenic inputs. Potassium-40 remained relatively uniform, reflecting natural lithological control. The findings highlight dual contamination pathways: natural geogenic enrichment and human-induced pollution, including waste mismanagement and potential fallout contributions. The persistence of such isotopes in soils presents long-term health risks through groundwater contamination, crop uptake, and chronic exposure pathways. This research underscores the urgent need for systematic monitoring, public health risk assessments, and policy interventions aimed at sustainable management of the Ghaggar basin.

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Pages: 85-88     |    1 View     |    0 Download