Air pollution is an immense problem due to its detrimental health effects on human populations. This study investigates the distribution of particle-bound heavy metals and associated health risks in three diverse areas (Durgapur as an industrial complex, Kolkata as an urban area, and Bolpur as a semi-urban region) in West Bengal, India. Twenty-one (84 samples) sampling sites were chosen, covering industrial, traffic, residential, and sensitive zones. The respirable suspended particulate matter (RSPM) samples were collected using a portable Mini-Vol Tactical Air Sampler, and heavy metal concentrations (Cd, Cr, Mn, Ni, Pb, and As) were analyzed using ICP-OES. The non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks were assessed using exposure concentration (EC), hazard quotient (HQ), hazard index (HI), and additional lifetime cancer cases. The results highlight variations in heavy metal concentrations across the regions, with industrial areas exhibiting higher levels. Principal component analysis (PCA) unveiled distinct metal co-variation patterns, reflecting sources such as industrial emissions, traffic, and natural contributors. The sum of non-carcinogenic risks (HI) of all heavy metals exceeded the US EPA’s risk limit (HI<1) in both Kolkata and Durgapur, except for Bolpur. Similarly, the sum of cancer risk in three distinct areas exceeded the USEPA limits (1.00E-06). The Monte Carlo simulation revealed the 5th and 95th percentile range of cancer risk was 9.12E-06 to 1.12E-05 in Bolpur, 3.72E-05 to 4.49E-05 in Durgapur and 2.13E-05 to 2.57E-05 in Kolkata. Kolkata had the highest additional lifetime cancer cases compared to Bolpur and Durgapur. This study provides information on the complex connections between heavy metal pollution and possible health risks in industrial, urban, and semi-urban regions.

Ponds are an integral component of the hydrological system; and perform diverse roles in the biosphere. Studies on pond ecosystems are, however, often neglected, probably, due to their little size. There is no doubt that little things perform many important activities in our lives. The literature survey on pond environment studies shows very little investigative works in India; and there is no review publication on pond environment reports. In Europe, pond conservation initiative has, however, resulted in many studies on the subject. In Indian perspectives, when there is a dearth of studies on ponds, it is futile to say that there is any concrete institutional initiative on pond conservation. The 2010-2011 report of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) shows that there are only 60 CPCB pond water quality monitoring stations in the country. In these scenarios, an attempt has been made in this manuscript to compile the reports on pond environment in India. The problems faced by ponds in India, mostly from pollution and encroachment, have been discussed in the text. Based on outcomes of different pond reports, some suggestions have been discussed in the end of the manuscript for an effective pond conservation initiative, and their sustainable management in India.