India, Oct. 14 -- At least 109 residents of Dattanagar in Maharashtra's Nashik have been diagnosed with skin conditions and allergies after authorities screened 248 people amid concerns over toxic groundwater contamination.

Laboratory tests found hexavalent chromium concentrations of 50.3 mg/L, more than 1,000 times the prescribed drinking water limit for total chromium.

The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board has ordered the closure of 17 electroplating units, while authorities have prohibited groundwater use in the affected area.

Residents have reported skin rashes, blisters and ulcers, while two women have reported miscarriages, although a direct link to chromium exposure has not been established.

Authorities are supplying water th...