Addressing PFAS contamination in India: a call for comprehensive action, policy progress, and pathway forward.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Toxicology
• Public Health

Background:

• Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic fluorinated compounds with significant environmental and human health impacts.
• PFAS, including PFHxS, PFOA, and PFOS, are listed as industrial Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) under the Stockholm Convention.
• PFAS pollution is a growing concern in India, particularly in industrial regions with inadequate environmental monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically assess the sources, environmental fate, and transport of PFAS in key Indian states.
• To highlight the risks of PFAS to human health and the environment, with a focus on drinking water exposure.
• To review existing Indian policies and regulatory frameworks for PFAS and identify areas for improvement.

Main Methods:

• Critical assessment of existing literature on PFAS in India.
• Analysis of environmental contamination pathways and human exposure routes.
• Evaluation of current regulatory measures and policy frameworks.

Main Results:

• PFAS contamination is increasing in India, posing risks through drinking water and environmental exposure.
• Existing environmental monitoring and regulatory frameworks in India have limitations in addressing PFAS pollution.
• There is a need for enhanced policies, stricter regulations, and increased public awareness regarding PFAS.

Conclusions:

• Urgent need for stricter regulations, expanded monitoring networks, and enhanced public and stakeholder awareness in India to combat PFAS pollution.
• Development and implementation of sustainable alternatives and management techniques are crucial for PFAS reduction.
• Informed policy decisions are essential to mitigate the adverse impacts of PFAS on health and the environment in India.