TGPCB finds high levels of lead, cadmium, nickel in Madhapur borewells; HYDRAA files case

Hyderabad: The Telangana Pollution Control Board (TGPCB) has found dangerously high levels of heavy metals such as lead, cadmium and nickel in borewell water drawn around Sunnam Cheruvu in Madhapur.

Recent water quality tests revealed that the groundwater, which is being supplied as drinking water to hostels, educational institutions and hotels in the area, contains toxic concentrations of lead, cadmium and nickel.

Toxic water is endangering public health

Illegal borewells dug around the polluted Sunnam Cheruvu are turning into a silent health threat for thousands of students and residents.

Despite the foul smell around the lake, water suppliers are drawing borewell water and distributing it for daily consumption, risking serious health issues among young students preparing for competitive exams.

Detailed findings: Lead, cadmium and nickel exceed safe limits

The TGPCB tests showed alarming contamination:

Lead (Pb): Safe limit is 0.01 mg/litre. Samples showed 0.073 – 0.122 mg/litre, which is 7–12 times higher. Lead affects children’s brain development, reduces memory power, and causes anaemia, kidney damage, heart diseases, and fertility issues.

Cadmium (Cd): Permissible limit is 0.003 mg/litre. Samples contained 0.007 – 0.010 mg/litre, about 2–3 times higher. Cadmium exposure damages kidneys, weakens bones, and increases cancer risk.

Nickel (Ni): Safe limit is 0.02 mg/litre. The tested samples showed 0.038 – 0.046 mg/litre, nearly double the permissible levels. Excess nickel intake can cause skin disorders, liver damage, kidney problems, and high blood pressure at a young age.

Boiling water does not remove these heavy metals

Doctors warn that boiling such contaminated water is not a solution. While bacteria may die, heavy metals remain and become more concentrated, making them even more harmful for human consumption.

HYDRAA’s Rs 10 crore restoration plan

In view of the alarming contamination, HYDRAA has prioritised the restoration of Sunnam Cheruvu with an allocation of Rs 10 crore.

The 32.60-acre lake, located between Guttala Begumpet and Allapur, will undergo cleaning and development to improve groundwater quality and protect public health in Madhapur and surrounding areas.

Cases filed against illegal suppliers

HYDRAA officials have filed cases against water suppliers illegally selling this contaminated borewell water as drinking water. PCB officials also warned that similar contamination could be present in other borewells located near polluted lakes and drains across Hyderabad.