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HYDERABAD, Dec 6: Profe-ssor (Dr) M. Y. Khuhawar of the University of Sindh has said that underground water in Sindh is mostly saline and toxic and it is not fit for human consumption or irrigation.
In a statement faxed to Dawn here on Tuesday, he said that there were some pockets particularly on sides of the Indus River and canals where fresh water had accumulated and could serve as a source of water for drinking purpose.
He said that about 100 samples of water had been collected from tube-wells and hand pumps in Jamshoro, Qambar-Shahdadkot, Matiari, Nawabshah, Naushahro Feroze, Khairpur, Ghotki, Sukkur and Dadu districts and analyzed for total dissolved salts (TDS) and arsenic contamination.
Dr Khuhawar said the arsenic was detected in 46 samples within range of 5-250 PPB (parts per billion).
He pointed out that WHO’s permissible limit consumption was 10 PPB. He said that 20 samples indicated concentrations above 50 PPB, 10 samples above 100 PPB and two samples as high as 250 PPB.
Professor Khuhawar urged people that arsenic was highly toxic substance and continuous use of water with 100 PPB could result into arsenic related skin diseases and skin cancer.
He said that it was a matter of concern that the underground water with concentration of above 100 PPB was being regularly used for human consumption in several parts of Sindh.
He said the highest concentration of 250 PPB was observed from two simples collected from the Kingri taluka of the Khairpur district. He said the analysis of the sample carried out at the Dr M.A. Kazi Institute of chemistry was a part of academic research programme.
ARMY EXERCISE: Sindh Corps Commander Lieutenant General Syed Athar Ali on Tuesday witnessed an exercise, named “Sabit Qadam” by troops in Kotri, says an ISPR press release.
The aim of the exercise is to enhance skills of junior leaders during planning and conduct of offensive and defensive operations and to educate and train troops on modern methods of tactics, skilful use of terrain and employment of latest equipment in the field.
The exercise will also examine endurance and operational readiness of troops under trying and rough conditions.
Lt-Gen Athar Ali appreciated the performance of participating troops, the press release added.
At the divisional headquarters, the corps commander was received by GOC Maj-Gen Mohammad Mustafa Khan and introduced to staff officers followed by a comprehensive briefing covering the operational aspects.
