Question

Describe two causes of water pollution in India.

Hint:

Remember: The two biggest causes of water pollution in India are industries and untreated sewage. Always include an example like Ganga or Yamuna for a strong answer.

Answer 1

Water pollution in India is one of the most serious environmental issues, as it directly affects health, agriculture, and ecosystems. Two major causes are: 1. Industrial Effluents:
- Rapid industrialization has led to the release of toxic effluents into rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
- Industries such as textile, paper, tanneries, chemical plants, and thermal power plants discharge untreated wastewater containing heavy metals, acids, and harmful chemicals.
- For example, the Ganga and Yamuna rivers are heavily polluted due to industrial discharge.
2. Domestic Sewage and Urban Waste:
- Growing population and urbanization have increased sewage generation.
- A large portion of this sewage is directly dumped into rivers without proper treatment.
- Household waste, detergents, and plastics further degrade water quality.
- Cities like Delhi, Kanpur, and Kolkata face serious water pollution due to untreated municipal sewage.
Conclusion:
Industrial effluents and domestic sewage are the two leading causes of water pollution in India. Strict enforcement of pollution control laws and treatment of waste before discharge are necessary to protect water resources.