Water Pollution: Causes, Effects, and Control Measures
by Yuvi K - December 16, 2023
Water Pollution: Causes, Effects, and Control Measures
Water pollution is the contaminated state of water due to the presence of harmful contaminants. It affects aquatic ecosystems and human health and can increase the risk of diseases.
This article focuses on the root causes, effects, and measures to be taken for controlling water pollution.
Causes of Water Pollution
Water pollution is mainly caused by human activities and can be classified into the following three main categories:
- Point source pollution (direct pollution)
- Nonpoint source pollution (indirect pollution)
- Global Water Pollution (universal pollution)
Point Source Pollution (Direct Pollution)
Point-source pollution (पॉइंट स्रोत प्रदुषण, point source pradushan) is the type of water pollution caused by sources such as industrial and agricultural discharges, sewer lines, urban runoff, or other sources that release pollutants directly into water bodies.
The most common sources of point source pollution include:
- Untreated sewage from municipal wastewater treatment facilities
- Industrial wastewater and chemical runoff from factories and power plants
- Oil spills from ships, tankers, and offshore oil rigs
- Accidental chemical spills
Nonpoint Source Pollution (Indirect Pollution)
Nonpoint-source pollution (NPS) (गैर पॉइंट स्रोत प्रदुषण, gair point source pradushan), also known as diffuse pollution, is the type of water pollution caused by runoff from diffuse sources such as farmland, roads, construction sites, and urban areas. It is the most common type of water pollution and is difficult to control as it has no distinct sources.
The most common sources of nonpoint source pollution include:
- Fertilizers and other agricultural chemicals used in farming
- Sediment from soil erosion
- Solid waste that is littered or improperly disposed of
- 3Road salt, oils, and other chemicals used for car maintenance
- Urban and suburban runoff
Global Water Pollution (Universal Pollution)
Global water pollution (वैश्विक जल प्रदुषण, vaishvik jal pradushan) is the type of water pollution caused by global factors such as climate change, ozone depletion, and acid rain. It is the most serious type of water pollution and can cause drastic changes in aquatic ecosystems and affect human health.
The most common sources of global water pollution include:
- Greenhouse gas emissions
- Ozone layer depletion
- Acid rain
- Ocean acidification
Effects of Water Pollution
Water pollution has a wide range of adverse effects on aquatic ecosystems and human health. It can cause severe damage to aquatic ecosystems, including death of aquatic organisms, such as fishes, insects, and other animals. It can also lead to eutrophication of water bodies, resulting in algal blooms and oxygen depletion.
Water pollution can also have serious adverse impacts on human health. It can cause diseases such as cholera, dysentery, diarrhea, trachoma, and schistosomiasis. It can also lead to skin irritation and other health problems.
Control Measures for Water Pollution
The following measures can be taken to control water pollution:
- The adoption of better agricultural practices, such as using organic fertilizers and avoiding chemical pesticides.
- Proper waste management, such as reducing, reusing, and recycling.
- Treating industrial effluents before discharging them into water bodies.
- Monitoring and regulating the use of chemicals such as fertilizers and pesticides in agricultural areas near water bodies.
- Establishing an efficient wastewater treatment plant in urban and industrial areas.
- Installing oil-skimmers and other equipment to clean up oil spills.
- Cleaning up contaminated sites and restoring them to their original state.
- Educating people about the importance of water pollution control.
Conclusion
Water pollution is a major environmental issue and is caused by human activities. It has a wide range of adverse effects on aquatic ecosystems and human health. The only way to control water pollution is by taking measures to reduce, reuse, and recycle domestic and industrial wastewater. It is also important to educate people about the importance of water pollution control and engage them in the process.
