Aquatic Heavy Metal Contamination and Public Health Implications in Urban Freshwater Ecosystems of Pakistan

The contamination of drinking water with heavy metals presents a significant threat to public health, particularly in underdeveloped regions where regulations and infrastructure are often inadequate. This study offers a comparative geospatial and toxicological analysis of heavy metal levels, specifically lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), and chromium (Cr), in the drinking water sources of rural and urban areas of Sargodha, Pakistan. Water samples collected from various sites, including hand pump sources, were analyzed to compare heavy metal levels against WHO standards. The results show elevated levels of heavy metals in both rural and urban samples, with rural areas exhibiting higher concentrations due to agricultural runoff and poor waste disposal systems. Health risk assessments reveal a significant link between long-term exposure to contaminated water and higher risks of chronic diseases such as kidney damage, neurological disorders, and developmental delays in children. The study highlights an urgent need for stronger regulations, better water management infrastructure, and community awareness programs to reduce health risks from heavy metal pollution in Sargodha's water sources. The main goal of this research is to identify potential sources of heavy metal contamination, evaluate its effects on human health, and compare differences between rural and urban settings.