Determination of nitrate in groundwater of Proddatur, Mydukur and Yerraguntla areas of Ysr Kadapa Dt., (AP) India

Nitrate contamination in groundwater is a common problem in many parts of the world. Nitrate is a common nitrogenous compound due to natural processes of the nitrogen cycle, igneous rocks, anthropogenic sources like unsecured septic tanks, application of nitrogen-rich fertilizers in agricultural processes. The level of nitrate concentration in groundwater of three densely populated areas, Proddatur (PDTR), Mydukur (MYD) and Yerraguntla (YGL) of YSR Kadapa district was evaluated. A total of 30 samples from tube wells were collected and analyzed for nitrate using UV-VIS spectrophotometer. The average groundwater nitrate concentrations of the study areas are reported as 112.7 mg/L for PDTR, 41.3 mg/L for MYD and 120.82 mg/L for YGL area. The nitrate concentration in 63 % samples of the study area exceeded the maximum permissible limit of nitrate (45 mg/L) for drinking water set by WHO and thus pose a threat to human health. The consumption of nitrate rich water causes a large number of diseases like dizziness, abdominal disorder, vomiting, weaknesses, mental disorder and even stomach cancer and blue baby syndrome or methemoglobinemia which robs the blood cells of their ability to carry oxygen. Due to the detrimental biological effects, treatment and prevention methods must be considered to protect groundwater aquifers from nitrate leaching and high concentrations.