Assessment of Heavy Metal Contamination Status and Associated Health Risk from Solid Waste Open Dumping Site in Mymensingh, Bangladesh

Municipal solid waste (MSW) dumping sites are major sources of heavy metal pollution, posing severe environmental and public health risks in rapidly urbanizing areas. This study evaluates heavy metal concentrations, contamination status, associated health risks, and potential sources at an open dumping site in Mymensingh City Corporation, Bangladesh. Seven heavy metals (Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn) were quantified using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS), with average concentrations following the order Zn > Cu > Mn > Cr > Pb > Ni > Co. Contamination levels were assessed using the Contamination Factor (CF), Pollution Load Index (PLI), and Integrated Pollution Degree (Cd). Copper (CF = 8.85) and Lead (CF = 8.36) were dominant pollutants, while Chromium (CF = 3.24) also showed significant contamination. High Cd values (> 20), with a maximum of 625.10, indicate severe environmental degradation. PLI values (> 1 in all samples) confirm site pollution, posing risks to agricultural land and the food chain. Leachate analysis reveals high concentrations of Manganese (25.00 mg/L) and Zinc (15.00 mg/L), highlighting the risk of heavy metal migration into water bodies. Source analysis identifies commercial and municipal waste as primary contributors, while health risk assessments indicate 78% of workers face high risks due to inadequate safety measures. The findings underscore the urgent need for improved waste management, protective interventions, and health safety measures to mitigate heavy metal pollution and safeguard environmental and public health.