IIT-Madras study finds heavy metals, drugs in Cauvery river – Times of India

CHENNAI: A research team from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras has detected high concentrations of pharmaceutically active compounds including painkillers, caffeine and those used to treat heart blocks, high blood pressure, depression and epilepsy, and heavy metals zinc, manganese, lead, chromium, nickel, copper, aluminium, mercury, arsenic and cadmium in River Cauvery. Their presence in one of the largest rivers in south India is a recipe for growth of microorganisms with antimicrobial-resistant genes that could pose health risks to human and aquatic life.
Researchers said these compounds and metals come from various sources including tourist activities, veterinary centres, wastewater discharge, smallscale and cottage industries, coffee processing units and cash crop plantations. “When heavy metals and pharmaceutical compounds are present together, there is a chance of microorganisms developing antimicrobial-resistant genes. Studies elsewhere have reported it. When humans consume the water and if the microorganisms cause disease, there is a chance that existing medicines and antibiotics will not be effective in treating it,” said Prof Ligy Philip, department of civil engineering, IITM, who led the research team.

The team conducted the research over two years to study the seasonal variation of the pharmaceutically active compounds (phACs). Among several compounds detected, isoprenaline hydrochloride used to treat heart block, antihypertensive and prescribed for coronary heart disease Perindopril Erbumine, antidepressant and medicine for epilepsy Topiramate were quantified for the first time in an Indian river.
Researchers said higher average concentrations for majority of the phACs were recorded in upstream stations (Karnataka), which could be due to a higher number of pilgrimage and touristic spots and more illegal settlements. Further, levels of pollutants increased during the postmonsoon season (February), which could be due to reduced riverine flow and continuous waste discharge from multiple sources.
Though the concentrations of the phACs are lower compared to a few other rivers, the IIT-M study team recommends regular monitoring of rivers and tributaries for contamination by pharmaceutical compounds in water supplied for drinking and agricultural activities, and upgradation of wastewater treatment systems.