Analysis of Chlorpyrifos in Surface Water, Samples of district Buner, KPK

Abstract

Chlorpyrifos is a commonly utilized organophosphorus pesticide, frequently applied in agriculture to manage pest populations and enhance crop production. Nevertheless, chlorpyrifos presents considerable risks to both human health and the environment due to its toxicity and persistence. This research examines the levels of chlorpyrifos contamination in surface water samples collected from agricultural regions in District Buner, Pakistan. Chlorpyrifos residues were measured in 25 surface water samples using gas chromatography with an electron capture detector (GC-ECD). The maximum concentration recorded was 0.143 µg/L. A health risk assessment based on US EPA criteria revealed that children may face potential cancer risks from chlorpyrifos exposure via surface water, while adults exhibited lower levels of risk. These results underscore the necessity for ongoing monitoring and regulation of chlorpyrifos application to safeguard environmental and public health.