Textile dyes as a source of groundwater contamination in Mandalay, Myanmar

Textile dyeing and weaving of traditional longyi garments have traditionally occurred in the Amarapura township of Mandalay, Myanmar, since 1822, transitioning from natural to chemical dyes in the early 1900s. With no current wastewater treatment facilities in Mandalay, dye effluents mix with other wastewaters in unlined canals dug near people’s homes and discharge into the local canals and groundwater. Because locals rely heavily on dug and tube wells for drinking, bathing, and cooking, this industry poses a major health hazard to the people in this region. The objective of this study was to identify the previously unknown composition of the textile dyes, as well as identify and quantify the concentrations of major ions and heavy metals found in dye effluents, and determine their impact on the local groundwater resources. Powdered dye samples from each stage of the dyeing process were characterized by the combination of heavy metals used to create these color dyes. Groundwater and surface water were also sampled. Results of analysis of the dye and water samples indicated that most of the heavy metals discharge into the groundwater environment. Textile dyeing is a major source of pollution and a health hazard to the residents of Amarapura township; however, the locals are not readily connecting dye practices to the issues with their drinking water. This study provides information on groundwater composition near dyeing industries in Amarapura township that may help inform further monitoring strategies and communicate the health risks of exposure to heavy metals for local people.