Analysis of heavy metal concentration from sugar mill and its impact on groundwater “a case study of shaheed benazirabad (SBA) Sindh Pakistan”

Department of Environmental Science, School of Postgraduate Studies, Diponegoro University, Semarang, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: saimalashari99@gmail.com

Abstract

Shaheed Benazirabad, Sindh, Pakistan, faces significant water issues that endanger human health in its residents. Mismanagement, insufficient facilities, and inefficient management systems exacerbate water scarcity. Consequently, the region experiences water disruptions, waterborne infections, and substantial water wastage. To analyze the heavy metals (HM) concentrations, maximum 35 water samples were gathered from industrial area of Habib Sugar Mill. These samples included spent wash in ponds (n = 3), wastewater in Simnala (n = 4), and (n = 28) groundwater from the industrial area through operational community tube wells, dug wells and open wells were collected by using plastic bottles. The concentration of Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Zn, As, and Pb were analyzed by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) with a standard burner head under the terms recommended via manufacturer. After analyzing the collected samples of wastewater, Pb, Cd, As, and Ni concentrations were found in excess than the recommended limits set by the PAKEPA. Additionally, the concentrations of Cd, Mn, Ni, Pb, Fe, Cr, and As of groundwater samples were exceeded the guidelines of WHO for drinking water quality, which make it unsafe for consumption. In contrast, the levels of Cu and Zn were within acceptable limits.