Sukinda Valley Chromium Contamination

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) Kolkata bench directed the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) to investigate groundwater contamination in Sukinda Valley, Jajpur district, Odisha.

• It is a Shiny, hard metal with a silver-grey color.
• Melting Point: High.
• Source: Obtained from chromite ore.
• Symbol and Atomic Number: Cr, 24.
• Hardness: Third hardest element after carbon (diamond) and boron.
• Forms of Chromium About Chromium
  • Trivalent Chromium (Cr(III)): Safe for humans.
  • Hexavalent Chromium (Cr(VI)): Toxic.
• Trivalent Chromium (Cr(III)): Uses and Benefits
  • Trivalent Chromium Sources: Found in foods and supplements.
  • Blood Sugar Regulation: May help maintain normal blood sugar levels by improving insulin use.
  • Potential Benefits: Claimed to help with diabetes, high cholesterol, athletic performance, and bipolar disorder, though most claims lack strong scientific evidence.
• Hexavalent Chromium (Cr(VI))
  • Toxicity: Highly toxic, harmful to human health, environment, and biodiversity.
  • Source: Mainly produced by human activities.

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What is Chromium Pollution? 

The Contamination of soil, water, and air with excessive levels of chromium compounds.

• Main Concerns:
  • Soil: Disrupts soil quality and affects plant growth.
  • Water: Pollutes water sources, making them unsafe for consumption and harming aquatic life.
  • Air: Can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues when inhaled.

• Sources of Chromium Pollution

• • Industrial Activities: Chrome plating, leather tanning, and stainless steel production release Cr(VI) into the environment.
  • Mining and Smelting: Chromite mining and ferrochrome production contribute to chromium pollution.
  • Waste Disposal: Improper disposal of chromium-containing waste leads to environmental contamination.

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