From Issues to Mitigation of Arsenic Contamination: A Ranking-Based Assessment Using the Garett Ranking Approach
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12928/dpphj.v20i1.14063Keywords:
Arsenic contamination, Mitigation strategies, Arsenicosis issues, Environmental problems, Garett rankingAbstract
Background: Groundwater arsenic contamination is not simply a water quality concern rather it creates a range of debilitating problems from health issues to socioeconomic and Infrastructure. Therefore, this study systematically evaluated the challenges of arsenic contamination and community-priority interventions using a ranking-based analytical approach. Method: This study was conducted in two phases: an initial pilot survey in 2022, followed by a final questionnaire survey in 2023. Data on arsenic contamination and mitigation strategies were collected using a combination of simple random and purposive sampling techniques. Among the 780 surveyed households, 196 were identified as affected by arsenicosis. To prioritize challenges, 10 key issues were ranked, and five mitigation technologies were evaluated based on associated risks. The Garrett Ranking Method was applied to systematically analyze these challenges and mitigation preferences. Results: Physical health problems (68.90) ranked as the topmost concern for arsenicosis patients, followed by economic hardships (61.73). Provisions of safe water make people less concerned about safe water accessibility (55.08) compared to healthcare facilities (59.06). Different misconceptions and myths about the disease among locals lead to social vulnerability in terms of social isolation and problematic family and relationship issues. In terms of mitigation preferences, Public Water Supply Schemes (PWSS) ranked as the most preferred solution (67.41), followed by Swajaldhara schemes (54.45) and deep tube wells (50.20). At the same time, arsenic treatment units (ATUs) and dug wells were the least favoured (42.92 & 34.03 respectively) due to maintenance and quality concerns. Conclusion: Arsenicosis is a multi-dimensional crisis requiring improved healthcare access, financial support, and sustainable water solutions. State and Local governments, healthcare providers, and communities must collaborate to support affected individuals and improve the quality of life in arsenic-contaminated areas.
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