Levels and risk due to uranium content in drinking water of the Chakrata region of Garhwal Himalaya, India

• This study examines uranium levels and corresponding risks in water samples of Chakrata, Uttarakhand, India. • Uranium concentration ranged from 0.54–2.63 μg/L, averaging 1.32 μg/L, with spring water showing more variation than other sources. • Uranium concentration, LADD, HQ, and ELCR levels were all within safe limits set by AERB and WHO. • Statistical approaches like Pearson correlation and spatial mapping were used to support and validate the findings. Radiological and chemical toxicity analysis in water is vital to ensure the safety of public well-being. Present study examines the concentration of uranium in drinking water samples from the Chakrata region of Uttarakhand, India, alongside key physiochemical properties (i.e., pH, EC, and TDS). A total of 100 drinking water samples were collected and analyzed by using LED fluorimetry. The measured uranium concentrations ranged from 0.54 to 2.63 µg/L, with an average of 1.32 µg/L. The corresponding annual effective doses varied between 4.69––22.67 µSv/y, averaging 11.42 µSv/y. In most of the samples, the uranium levels were found to be within the safe limits recommended by the AERB and the WHO, respectively. Additionally, pH, TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) and EC (Electrical Conductivity) measurements provide insight into the overall water quality in the region. Furthermore, LADD (Lifetime Average Daily Dose), ELCR (Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk) and HQ (Hazard Quotient) values were estimated for a better understanding of radiological and chemical toxicity. These findings bring out the importance of ongoing monitoring efforts to safeguard public health and ensure access to safe drinking water.