Assessment of Heavy Metal Contamination in the Industrial Region of Kanpur’s Tannery Sector and Its Removal from Water Using Biochar

The leather tanning industry in Kanpur, India, has grown exponentially over the years, becoming one of the largest producers of leather in the country. However, this rapid industrial growth has resulted in significant environmental contamination, primarily due to heavy metals. Key pollutants like chromium, lead, cadmium, nickel, and copper are frequently found in the effluents discharged from the tanneries. This paper investigates the causes, mechanisms, and consequences of heavy metal contamination in the industrial areas of Kanpur, focusing particularly on the tannery industry in Jajmau. It assesses the effects on human health, ecosystems, and the economy while evaluating current pollution control measures and suggesting solutions to mitigate the ongoing crisis