Arsenic contamination In the last four decades, more than 97% of the rural population have been provided with access to groundwater for their domestic needs. The recently discovered naturally-occurring arsenic in shallow groundwater invalidates much of this success. Two-thirds of the shallow tube-wells turn out to extract water with concentrations of arsenic above the permissible levels set by the World Health Organisation.

These wells were installed to provide a safe and reliable alternative to irregular and polluted surface water sources. Instead, between 35 and 77 million users are now exposed to dangerous levels of arsenic. Arsenic is chronically toxic after prolonged low-level exposure and can lead to various cancers and neurological disorders. Given their poor nutrition and generally low health status, the poisoning has more severe consequences for the poor.

While research has clarified many of the geological, chemical, medical, social and technical facets of this complex issue, there is an urgent need for action. The central government struggles with an inadequate financial/institutional capacity, NGOs are struggling with a lack of expertise, and the private sector is not yet involved. Over the past few years, the rural poor have started realising the gravity of the situation, but it is difficult for them to react adequately due to the many uncertainties, misconceptions, financial barriers and limited power.

This situation has prompted us to initiate a programme bringing together researchers, development practitioners and local communities with the aim to learn about the problem, develop potential approaches and overcome the obstacles.