The study aimed to evaluate water quality and conduct a health risk assessment based on heavy metal contamination levels in and around the Pallikaranai marshland Chennai. A total of 10 water samples that were collected on september 2022 during Southwest Monsoon, the samples are subjected to analysis using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). Various physico-chemical parameters, including such as Depth, pH, electrical conductivity (Ec), total dissolved solids (TDS), oxidation–reduction potential (ORP), dissolved oxygen (DO), salinity, and temperature, were measured. The observed high pH value indicated an alkaline nature of the wetland water. Additionally, trace elements like iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), and chromium (Cr) were assessed, with Fe and Cr displaying higher concentrations. The present study investigating the concentrations of these toxic elements in water bodies is a key contributor to water pollution. The findings show that the Perungudi dumps, unchecked sewage flow, and industrial waste are causing a lot of aquatic weeds to grow in the marshes. These weeds are harming the plants and animals living there. These pollutants release toxins that can ultimately enter the human food chain, posing health risks to the local population and broader ecosystem. Despite the essential role of water as a natural resource, it is concerning that some individuals continue to misuse and mismanage this invaluable creation of nature.