- A study has revealed high levels of cancer-causing heavy metals, including lead and
chromium, in eight wetlands in Odisha, with Hirakud being one of them. - These heavy metals, which result from human activities such as urbanization,
industrialization, and agriculture, can enter crops through the soil and subsequently be
consumed by humans. - The study also noted that the surrounding community indirectly consumes water from
these wetlands by consuming foods like fish, rice, vegetables, and spinach grown in
them. - Hirakud Reservoir (Ramsar Site) is the largest earthen dam in Odisha and started
operating in 1957. - Out of the known 54 species of fish from the reservoir, one has been classed as being
endangered, six near threatened and 21 fish species of economic importance. - It also provides important hydrological services by moderating floods in the Mahanadi
Delta, the ecological and socio-economic hub of the east coast of India.
