A comparative analysis of radon (²²²Rn) concentration in the different water sources of Ganderbal, Jammu and Kashmir

Introduction Radon, a known carcinogen, is the second largest cause of lung carcinoma as per the World Health Organisation. The primary purpose of the present research is to examine and compare the concentrations of radon gas (²²²Rn) in different sources of water in the Lar and Ganderbal tehsils of the district of Ganderbal, Jammu and Kashmir. Higher groundwater ²²²Rn concentrations indicate higher indoor radon concentrations and long-term radon exposure is extremely harmful to human health as it increases the risk of developing lung cancer.
Method A scintillation-based radon monitor called the smart RnDuo was used to quantify the amount of radon activity present in water samples collected from different locations of Lar and Ganderbal regions of district Ganderbal.
Results Average radon (²²²Rn) concentration of 1.84 BqL^-1 was found in tap waters, 3.73 BqL^-1 in surface waters, 16.56 BqL^-1 in borewells, and 20.82 BqL^-1 in springs. The higher radon concentration in groundwater is because of the direct and prolonged interaction of uranium-rich rocks and soil with the water. Hence, monitoring and regulating radon levels in these water sources is crucial to ensure public health and safety.