GROUNDWATER QUALITY IN FLUORIDE PRONE AREA BY DR. PRASHANT C. ANDAGE, DR. S.V. SHIVANIKAR & DR. P.Y. PATIL [HARDCOVER]

Groundwater in fluoride-prone areas like parts of India has high fluoride levels due to the natural weathering of fluoride-rich minerals in rocks and soil, amplified by anthropogenic factors such as agricultural runoff from fertilizers and, in some cases, industrial discharge. High fluoride intake from contaminated water can lead to health problems like dental and skeletal fluorosis, with children being particularly vulnerable. Monitoring, defluoridation techniques, and responsible water management are crucial to mitigate risks.