Clouds Over Himalayas No Longer Pure, Carry Cancer-Causing Toxic Metals: Govt Study

Once considered pristine, the clouds over the Himalayas may now be carrying toxic heavy metals linked to cancer and other serious health issues, according to a new study cited by the Ministry of Science & Technology.

In a startling revelation, the ministry stated, “The findings not only shatter the myth of ‘clean’ mountain rain but also ring alarm bells for human health, with potential risks ranging from cancer to developmental disorders.”

The discovery comes from research conducted by the Bose Institute, an autonomous body under the Department of Science and Technology (DST). Led by Dr. Sanat Kumar Das, the Atmospheric Research team studied non-precipitating clouds during the onset of the monsoon over the Western Ghats and Eastern Himalayas.

Key Findings:

• Clouds over the Eastern Himalayas were found to contain 1.5 times more pollutants than average, due to 40–60% higher concentrations of toxic metals such as Cadmium (Cd), Copper (Cu), Chromium (Cr), and Zinc (Zn).
• These pollutants largely originate from vehicular traffic and industrial emissions in the foothill regions.
• Children in India are at 30% higher risk of exposure compared to adults.
• Chromium, in particular, was identified as a major health hazard, with inhalation of dissolved Cr in clouds linked to increased risk of carcinogenic diseases.

The toxic metals can impact human health through inhalation, skin contact, and even ingestion of water collected from precipitation in high-altitude areas.

Public Health Implications:

The study quantified both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic disease risks using advanced statistical models. According to the ministry, this represents a major concern for public health, especially in ecologically sensitive and high-altitude regions where locals often rely on rainwater.

Despite the findings, the statement clarified that India’s clouds are still relatively less polluted when compared to countries like China, Pakistan, Italy, and the USA, placing the nation in a “safer health zone” for now.

Research Published in ‘Environmental Advances’

The study, published in the peer-reviewed journal Environmental Advances, is expected to shape future research in atmospheric pollution, climate science, and public health policy.