ASSESSMENT OF HEAVY METAL CONCENTRATION PRESENT IN SUBSURFACE WATER DUE TO SOLID WASTE DUMPING

Abstract

Landfill and open dumping of solid waste are the two major disposal methods adopted in developing countries like India. The entire Municipal Solid Waste management system includes generation, collection and safe disposal carried out by the respective local bodies. In this study, Pallavaram dumpsite, which is situated on the Thoraipakkam radial road was selected due to its proximity and possible threat to the nearby locality, which includes lakes on either side. This study was undertaken to evaluate the physio-chemical properties of leachate and subsurface water samples collected from 10 locations during Pre-Monsoon and Post-Monsoon periods. It includes the analysis of substantial heavy metal concentrations such as lead, arsenic, chromium, zinc and iron using Inductive Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICPMS) and other physio-chemical properties as per Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). The results of subsurface water analysis revealed that the parameters such as TDS, total hardness, sulphates, chloride, chromium and arsenic were 2103 mg/L, 2136 mg/L, 611 mg/L, 6746 mg/L, 0.82 mg/L and 0.035 mg/L respectively. It was found to be maximum during both the monsoons and the values exceed the permissible limit as mentioned in BIS. It also showed significant variations in the pre and post - monsoon periods. This has a diverse impact on the subsurface water quality, which contributes to health issues rendering it unsuitable for consumption and household activities. Hence, appropriate remedial measures must be taken to avoid further contamination.

Keywords

• Heavy metals
• Leachate
• Physio-chemical properties
• Solid waste