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

Abstract

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 µg/L) in the Jijal complex and Pb (10.6 µg/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.

Keywords:

• Chronic daily intake
• hazard quotient
• Kohistan batholith
• Chilas complex
• Kamila amphibolites
• Jijal complex
• Indian plate

Acknowledgments

The authors acknowledge the financial support of Higher Education Commission, Pakistan.

Disclosure statement

Authors declared no conflict of interest.

Additional information

Funding

This workwas supported by the Higher Education Commission, Pakistan.