abstract

This study provides a comprehensive assessment of heavy metal contamination in the River Yamuna, focusing on five key metals: lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), arsenic (As), and chromium (Cr). The investigation involved collecting water and fish samples from three segments of the river: upstream, midstream, and downstream. Advanced analytical techniques, including atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), were employed to determine the concentrations of these heavy metals. The results indicate significant levels of contamination, particularly downstream, with concentrations often exceeding the regulatory limits set by the World Health Organisation (WHO), the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), and the European Union (EU). Bioaccumulation of heavy metals in fish tissues, especially in the liver, poses serious health risks to humans consuming these fish. The study highlights the urgent need for enhanced regulatory enforcement, improved wastewater treatment, and public awareness initiatives to mitigate the adverse impacts of heavy metal pollution in the Yamuna. The findings provide critical insights for policymakers and environmental agencies to develop effective pollution control measures and improve water quality in the river.