Geomorphic controls of arsenic in ground water in Purbasthali I & II blocks of Burdwan District, West Bengal, India
Arsenic values in groundwater above the maximum permissible limit of 0.05 mg/l (Indian standards) have been reported from BhagirathiHooghly flood plain region of West Bengal. The present study area Purbasthali I and II blocks in Burdwan district, West Bengal, evolved due to the flood plain forming processes. Many flood plain features are mapped using satellite image. Close links with the geomorphic features and arsenic pollution in the tube wells are observed here. It has been studied that the higher amount (>0.50mg) of arsenic content tube wells are located around the major flood plain features. It is concluded that the processes of sedimentation is mainly responsible for arsenic deposition in the aquifers. People living along the major flood plain features must be provided alternative safe drinking water.