Question

Water pollution

Hint:

For exams, remember the top sources of water pollution in India: 1. {Domestic Sewage} (largest volume), 2. {Industrial Waste} (most toxic), and 3. {Agricultural Runoff} (widespread non-point source).

Answer 1

Water pollution is the contamination of water bodies, such as rivers, lakes, oceans, aquifers, and groundwater, usually as a result of human activities. It occurs when harmful substances are introduced into the water, degrading its quality and making it toxic to humans or the environment.
Sources of Pollution:
Domestic Sewage: Untreated wastewater from households is the largest source by volume.
Industrial Effluents: Chemical waste discharged from factories can be highly toxic.
Agricultural Runoff: Pesticides and fertilizers washed away from farms.
Solid Waste: Improper disposal of plastics and other garbage.

Effects: Water pollution harms aquatic life, disrupts ecosystems, causes water-borne diseases (like cholera, typhoid) in humans, and can contaminate the food chain.