Cauvery River Fish Tainted by Toxic Heavy Metals, Posing Health Risks

In a concerning development, researchers from Bharathidasan University in Tiruchirappalli have reported that the Cauvery river and its fish are heavily polluted with toxic heavy metals. The study, published in August 2024, found significant accumulation of chromium, cadmium, copper, lead, and zinc in the river's sediments and fish tissues.

The researchers analyzed samples from 18 sites along the Cauvery and 10 fish species, and discovered that several fish exceeded safe thresholds for non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks, especially due to cadmium and lead. This underscores the pressing impacts of urbanization, industrial effluents, and agricultural runoff on the river's ecosystem and water quality.

The study's findings have direct implications for public health. While occasional fish consumption may not pose immediate threats, prolonged exposure could lead to cumulative health risks. The researchers recommend limiting Cauvery river fish consumption to no more than twice a week, with a portion size of 250 grams per serving, to ensure safety.

This comprehensive assessment of heavy metal contamination in the Cauvery basin provides a crucial scientific basis for local authorities to implement stricter pollution control measures and public health interventions to mitigate the risks to both the environment and consumers.