Spatial Distribution and Ecological Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in Agricultural Soils Around Industrial Hubs in Prayagraj Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

The industrial expansion in the Naini and Jhunsi regions of Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, has raised significant concerns regarding heavy metal accumulation in agricultural soils, impacting crop safety and human health. This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of the occurrence, spatial distribution, and ecological consequences of metals such as Fe, Zn, Pb, Cd, Ni, Cr, and Cu in the local environment. Ten representative sampling sites (N1-N5 in Naini and J1-J5 in Jhunsi) were analyzed to assess physico-chemical properties and metal concentrations at a depth of 0-20 cm. Findings reveal that Naini soils exhibit higher levels of contamination compared to Jhunsi, particularly near industrial effluent channels and fields irrigated with wastewater from the Mawaiya drain. The soil pH across all sites ranged from 7.5 to 8.1, indicating slightly alkaline conditions that influence metal mobility. High values of the Pollution Load Index (PLI) and Enrichment Factor (EF) indicate moderate to high contamination in specific hotspots. Key sources of these pollutants include steel and metal fabrication industries, untreated sewage, and municipal waste dumping. The study concludes that immediate intervention is required, including systematic surveillance, wastewater treatment, and the adoption of remediation strategies like phytoremediation to safeguard food safety and agricultural livelihoods in the region.