Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
River water quality in India is a critical environmental concern, impacting public health, agriculture, and ecosystem integrity. Water quality refers to the chemical, physical, and biological characteristics of water, determining its suitability for various uses. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), only 33% of monitored river stretches meet the criteria for ‘good’ water quality (as of 2022). This deterioration is driven by a complex interplay of natural processes and, more significantly, anthropogenic activities. A critical appraisal of these factors is essential for devising effective mitigation strategies.
Factors Affecting River Water Quality in India
The factors affecting river water quality can be broadly categorized into natural and anthropogenic sources, and further subdivided into point and non-point sources.
1. Natural Factors
- Geological Composition: The underlying geology of the river basin influences the mineral content and salinity of the water. For example, rivers flowing through sedimentary regions tend to have higher levels of dissolved salts.
- Climate: Rainfall patterns, temperature, and evaporation rates affect water flow and concentration of pollutants. Monsoon seasons can lead to increased runoff carrying sediments and pollutants.
- Topography: Steep slopes contribute to higher erosion rates, increasing sediment load in rivers.
2. Anthropogenic Factors – Point Sources
- Industrial Effluents: Discharge of untreated or partially treated industrial wastewater containing heavy metals, organic pollutants, and toxic chemicals is a major contributor. Industries like textiles, tanneries, and pharmaceuticals are particularly problematic. The presence of Chromium in the Ganges river near Kanpur is a prime example.
- Domestic Sewage: Rapid urbanization and inadequate sewage treatment infrastructure lead to the discharge of untreated domestic wastewater into rivers. This introduces pathogens, organic matter, and nutrients, causing eutrophication.
- Agricultural Runoff (Concentrated): Discharge from concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) and improper disposal of agricultural waste contribute to localized pollution.
3. Anthropogenic Factors – Non-Point Sources
- Agricultural Runoff (Diffuse): Excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture leads to runoff containing nitrates, phosphates, and harmful chemicals. This is a significant issue in the Indo-Gangetic Plain.
- Urban Runoff: Stormwater runoff from urban areas carries pollutants like oil, grease, heavy metals, and litter into rivers.
- Religious Practices: Disposal of religious offerings, idols, and partially cremated bodies into rivers, particularly the Ganges, contributes to organic pollution and pathogen load.
- Mining Activities: Mining operations release heavy metals and sediments into rivers, impacting water quality and aquatic life.
4. Regulatory and Governance Issues
- Inadequate Infrastructure: Lack of sufficient sewage treatment plants (STPs) and industrial effluent treatment plants (ETPs) is a major constraint.
- Weak Enforcement: Lax enforcement of environmental regulations and inadequate monitoring contribute to continued pollution.
- Inter-State Disputes: Conflicts over water sharing between states hinder coordinated efforts to manage river water quality.
- Lack of Public Awareness: Limited public awareness about the importance of river conservation and responsible waste disposal practices.
| Factor Category | Specific Examples | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Industrial Effluents | Tanneries in Kanpur releasing Chromium | Heavy metal contamination, toxicity to aquatic life |
| Domestic Sewage | Untreated sewage discharge in Varanasi | Pathogen contamination, eutrophication, oxygen depletion |
| Agricultural Runoff | Pesticide runoff in Punjab | Chemical contamination, disruption of aquatic ecosystems |
| Religious Practices | Immersion of idols in the Ganges | Organic pollution, increased pathogen load |
Conclusion
The degradation of river water quality in India is a multifaceted problem stemming from a combination of natural processes and, predominantly, anthropogenic activities. Addressing this requires a holistic approach encompassing improved sewage treatment infrastructure, stricter enforcement of environmental regulations, promotion of sustainable agricultural practices, and increased public awareness. Effective inter-state cooperation and a shift towards a circular economy model are also crucial for ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of India’s river systems. The ‘Namami Gange’ program, while a step in the right direction, needs further strengthening and broader implementation to achieve tangible results.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.