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Human health is a well-known concern when it comes to any developmental projects. Mining and beneficiation of minerals is considered as an important sector for growing economy of the country. And, such industries have also been identified as sources of environmental pollution. There is a relationship between anthropogenic activities and the environment. Rural population has still lack of health and sanitation related awareness or it can be said that they have adapted accordingly. Indeed, geochemical environment is a substantial factor for serious health issues. Present study discusses a case study of lead-zinc mining and beneficiation plant in Rajasthan wherein comparison of various factors is being done on the basis of distance from mining site. Perception of villagers have been considered and four toxic heavy metals namely arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury are being studied for the better understanding of effects of heavy metals on human health due to mining activities. Samples of drinking water were collected from mining and non-mining zones in order to compare and detect heavy metals using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). The heavy metal content is compared with the Indian standards of drinking water (IS 10500: 2012) and has observed that all are within permissible limits. Furthermore, expected results are discussed by studying various evidences of water contamination due to lead-zinc mining.
Depending on the duration of dosage and exposure pathways, clinical symptoms differ. For instance, low doses of cadmium can lead to health impacts such as coughing and vomiting but high dose might result in bone disorders and renal failure. Heavy metal contamination of fresh water may be due to natural factors and anthropological activities. During mining, improper handling of all types of wastes mainly affects the downstream regions.
Keywords: lead-zinc mining, human health, heavy metals, drinking water, Rajasthan
