About
Arsenic and heavy metal contamination of groundwater affect millions in India, primarily in the states of West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, and Chhattisgarh. Ingestion of arsenic causes severe health issues like cancer, and the concentration of the substance is increasing due to pollution and depletion of groundwater. A visit to some of the worst affected districts in West Bengal inspired Saket to build Organic Aqua Solutions (OAS). 'OAS Drinking Water Purifiers’ is a community-level drinking water purification solution, allowing the public to avail of Arsenic-free drinking water. The solution uses laterite, an indigenous material widely available in the region to remove contaminants through the process of adsorption. The solution is currently installed in over 20 critical habitats across 3 states to remove heavy metals from water while maintaining alkalinity and keeping water waste at a minimum. The solution is available to the public at a low cost per liter and does not use any electricity. The organization also runs BarterWATER, a program to engage local communities in SDG action in exchange for water credit, and is in the process of manufacturing domestic drinking water purifiers for the retail market.