Scientific mapping of the research in microbial and chemical contamination of potable water in Bangladesh: A review of literature

Drinking water contamination is one of the most pressing concerns for the people of Bangladesh as they rely on groundwater to meet their water needs. The existing water sources of Bangladesh are losing potability due to natural, anthropogenic, and geogenic factors, resulting in acute to severe health consequences. To address the issue of safe drinking water, researchers are constantly examining potential sources that cause the pollution of drinking water. Through bibliometric and systematic research, the current work seeks to review the past research on microbiological and chemical contamination of drinkable water in Bangladesh. The bibliometric review provides insights into the research trends, notable authors, countries, and institutions, whereas the systematic review unfolds the key research areas, the contamination process, and the strategies used to mitigate the contamination process. The results show that arsenic and various coliform bacteria are the most commonly reported sources of chemical and microbiological contaminants that degrade water quality. The study demonstrates that the most crucial factors influencing arsenic mobilization include microbial decomposition of organic matter (biologically available organic matter, for example, peat), arsenic adsorption by metal-oxyhydroxides, Fe–Mn oxyhydroxide, chemical fertilizers, pond excavation, and altering of groundwater hydrology. The studies also indicated the sources that contribute to the microbiological quality decline. The current work has addressed the scope of future research.