Abstract
Urbanization and industrialization have significantly increased heavy metal contamination in soils, raising concerns over ecological balance and human health. The present study investigates heavy metal concentrations and associated health risks in urban soils of Greater Mumbai, India. Soil samples from nineteen different locations were analyzed for pH, Nickel (Ni), Lead (Pb), Zinc (Zn), Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), Copper (Cu), Arsenic (As), and Mercury (Hg). Results reveal spatial variation in concentrations, with elevated levels of Pb (64-85 mg/kg), Zn (128-165 mg/kg), and Cu (47-67 mg/kg), indicating anthropogenic influence from traffic emissions, industrial discharge, and urban waste. Health risk assessment, evaluated through Hazard Index (HI) for children and adults shows higher vulnerability in children (HI-values up to 1.25), suggesting potential non-carcinogenic risks. Carcinogenic risk (CR) values for As and Cr, though within acceptable limits (10-6-10-4), highlight localized hotspots of concern. The Potential Ecological Risk Index ranged from 185 to 310, with higher risks observed in northeastern and industrial zones. Correlation with rainfall data suggests leaching and mobility of certain metals, which may further influence exposure pathways. This study underscores the urgent need for continuous monitoring of urban soils and the implementation of risk mitigation strategies to safeguard public health. The findings provide baseline data for policymakers, environmental managers, and urban planners, supporting sustainable land use planning and pollution control measures in rapidly growing metropolitan environments like Mumbai.
Keywords: Ecological Risk, Greater Mumbai, Health Risk Assessment, Heavy Metals, Soil Contamination, Urban Soils.