Policy Measures to Curb Health Risks Related Toxic Metals Transfer in Citrus Fruits from Wastewater Irrigation at Citrus Valley of Sargodha, Pakistan

Abstract

Wastewater irrigation in the Citrus Valley in Sargodha, Pakistan, has resulted in the accumulation of toxic metals like cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), cupper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) in citrus fruits. Research findings have revealed that the levels of toxic metals like Cd, Cr, Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn are prominent in the soil, water, and citrus fruits. The health risk index levels of metals like Cd, Cr, Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn have surpassed the permissible limits. However, the levels of metals like Cd, Cr, Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn in the daily intake have been found to be within the threshold WHO safe limits This policy brief has adopted evidence-based measures, recommending wastewater treatment, regulated irrigation, and soil amendments to safeguard citrus production and public health.