Metals Health Nexus: Research, Impact, Review, and Sustainable Remediation

Heavy metal presence in the environment is a recognized risk factor for various gastrointestinal (GI) illnesses globally. Over the course of two years, we conducted an investigation in the Calcutta textile industrial region, which has been producing textiles for over a century. We examined toxic heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Zn, Ni) in the waste of small-scale BD units and how it affected soil, fruit, and other Agro-samples. The inhabitants in the area were experiencing gastrointestinal sickness, which prompted our study. People in that region and its hinterland use surface water and intake daily Agro-products which contain 2 to 40 times higher (Pb, Cd, Ni) lead, cadmium, and nickel than the standard limit of WHO/FAO while nutrient (zinc) was found at 50 times lower than expected. The region’s soil samples tested positive for potentially heavy metals, suggesting a risk of GI disorders, ulcers, and cancer. This is also verified by observations/surveys for 2 years with local people.