What are the health risks of high nitrate levels in Delhi's water?

High nitrate levels can cause methemoglobinemia (blue baby syndrome) in infants and are associated with long-term risks like cancer and thyroid disorders in adults.

Which Delhi districts are most affected by nitrate contamination?

Seven districts in Delhi, including New Delhi, North, Northwest, South, Southeast, Southwest, and West Delhi, have recorded high nitrate levels.

What causes high nitrate levels in groundwater according to the CGWB report?

The primary causes are agricultural runoff from nitrogen-based fertilizers and animal waste, as well as leaching from poorly managed septic tanks and sewage systems.

Home / Environment / Delhi Ranks Fifth Worst for Water Nitrate Pollution

Delhi Ranks Fifth Worst for Water Nitrate Pollution

27 Dec

•

Summary

Delhi recorded peak nitrate levels of 994 mg/l, placing it fifth worst.
Andhra Pradesh had the highest peak nitrate levels at 2,296 mg/l.
Elevated nitrates can cause blue baby syndrome in infants.

Delhi Ranks Fifth Worst for Water Nitrate Pollution

Delhi has been identified as the fifth worst-affected state or Union Territory concerning high nitrate contamination in drinking water, with peak levels reaching 994 milligrams per litre. This alarming finding emerges from the Central Ground Water Board's (CGWB) 2024 annual groundwater report, based on samples collected in 2023. The contamination is particularly prevalent in seven of Delhi's 11 districts, including New Delhi and South Delhi.

Nationally, the issue is escalating, with the number of districts exceeding safe nitrate levels increasing from 359 in 2017 to 440 in 2023. Andhra Pradesh reported the highest peak contamination at 2,296 mg/l. Experts highlight that nitrate pollution, primarily from agricultural fertilizers and animal waste, presents a significant environmental and public health concern, leading to conditions like methemoglobinemia in infants and potential long-term risks for adults.