Cost of water supply options for arsenic mitigation

Arsenic contamination of groundwater-based water supply has become a great concern in many countries of the world. Provision of alternative arsenic-safe water supply is a priority for protection of health but it requires mobilization of huge financial resources in highly affected countries. This paper presents a comparative analysis of costs of treatment of arsenic contaminated water and utilization of alternative water sources for safe water supply in arsenic affected areas. Because of the complexities in arsenic removal, the cost of treatment of arsenic contaminated water at the present level of technological advancement is high and beyond affordability of the low-income rural population. Some alternative water supply options can provide water at comparatively low cost but are not suitable at all locations. The costs of arsenic-safe water supply, convenience and limitations of most technological options for arsenic mitigation have been discussed.