Fluoride Contamination in Sonbhadra: A Public Health Crisis Amid Delayed Clean Water Solutions

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Express Network, Page – 12)

Topic: GS3 – Environment

Context

In Sonbhadra district, Uttar Pradesh, excessive fluoride contamination in groundwater has caused skeletal fluorosis among villagers, leading to severe mobility issues, joint pain, and muscle weakness. The problem was first identified in 2013, and a recent Jal Nigam report (March 2024) confirmed unsafe fluoride levels in 120 hamlets, affecting nearly 2 lakh people.

Analysis of the news:

Health Impacts of Fluoride Contamination

• Fluorosis is a non-fatal yet debilitating disease that causes bone deformities, muscle weakness, and yellow teeth in children.

• Patients struggle with basic mobility, while many villagers depend on walking sticks due to joint pain and weakness.

• Concerns are growing over the long-term impact on future generations, with many children already showing early symptoms.

Government Response and Challenges

The government has initiated temporary relief measures, including:

• Treated water supply from Songanga river (for 30 minutes daily)
  

• Over 800 water tankers supplying potable water
  

• Water pipeline installation under Jal Jeevan Mission (2019)
  

However, challenges persist:

• Incomplete infrastructure: Of the 12 water supply schemes, only 10 are operational.
  

• Delayed pipeline projects: 13,000 km of pipelines have been installed, but many areas still lack clean water.
  

• Inconsistent water supply: Villagers rely on borewells and hand pumps, risking further exposure.
  

Lack of Sustainable Solutions

• Earlier small-scale water treatment plants failed due to lack of maintenance and technical expertise.

• Villagers were advised to consume tamarind and lemon to reduce fluoride’s impact but were also warned that boiling water increases fluoride concentration, leaving them with limited safe alternatives.

Need for Long-Term Interventions

The crisis highlights the urgent need for sustainable water management, including:

• Expansion of surface water supply projects
  

• Regular water quality testing through trained Jal Sakhis
  

• Better maintenance of water treatment plants
  

• Increased government accountability to ensure timely completion of water pipeline projects
  

Conclusion

• The fluorosis crisis in Sonbhadra is a stark reminder of India’s rural water quality challenges.

• While government efforts are underway, delays in implementation and lack of sustained interventions continue to put thousands of lives at risk.

• The success of Jal Jeevan Mission depends on ensuring timely access to clean drinking water, without which villagers will remain trapped in a cycle of poor health and limited mobility.

Practice Question: Fluoride contamination in groundwater poses a severe public health challenge in several regions of India, including Sonbhadra district in Uttar Pradesh. Discuss the causes, health impacts, and government interventions to address this issue. Suggest long-term measures for sustainable clean water access. (250 Words /15 marks)