Abstract
This study reports the mass fractions of Al, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Zn, As, Ni, Cu, Cd, Hg, and Pb in water and sediments of the Halda river, Bangladesh, and studies the distribution, contamination, and potential ecological risks of the metals and metalloid. The average mass fractions of As, Cd, and Pb are relatively higher in sediments compared to those in background values, whereas Al, Fe, Mn, and Pb concentration fractions in water are higher than the international guideline values. The results of the different contamination indices indicate that Halda river sediments are minorly contaminated by As and Pb and moderately to considerably contaminated by Cd. The ecological risk assessments indicate considerable to high ecological risk due to Cd. Multivariate statistical analysis reveals the origin of the contaminants in the river, and indicate that Cr, Zn, Pb, and Cd are from anthropogenic activities while the other metals originate from natural lithogenic actions.
•Total 12 metals/metalloid in sediments and water of the Halda river, Bangladesh were determined.•The contents of As, Cd, and Pb in sediments are higher than those in background values.•The contents of Al, Fe, Mn, and Pb in water are higher than international guideline values.•Heavy metal contamination indices and ecological risks were assessed.•The multivariate statistical analyses reveal the origin and transport behavior of the metals.