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Why is the Ganga River So Polluted?

Published in River Pollution Causes 3 mins read

The Ganga River is significantly polluted primarily because its basin is one of the most densely populated regions on Earth, leading to massive amounts of waste being discharged directly into its waters.

Key Contributors to Ganga River Pollution

The pollution of the Ganga River stems from a combination of human activities and natural factors, with human impact being the dominant cause. The high population density within its basin exacerbates the problem, as inadequate infrastructure struggles to manage the sheer volume of waste generated.

Here are the primary reasons for the Ganga's pollution, directly stemming from the pressures of human activity:

  • Untreated Sewage: A major contributor to the river's pollution is the untreated sewage dumped into the river. With a vast population living along its banks, much of the domestic wastewater from cities and towns flows directly into the Ganga without any prior treatment, introducing harmful bacteria and organic matter.
  • Industrial Waste: Industrial waste from factories located along the river's course is another significant pollutant. These industries often discharge toxic chemicals, heavy metals, and other hazardous substances directly into the river, severely compromising its water quality and ecosystem.
  • Agricultural Runoff: Agricultural runoff carrying pesticides, herbicides, and chemical fertilizers from surrounding farmlands contaminates the river. These chemicals, designed to boost crop yield, are washed into the river system, leading to eutrophication and harming aquatic life.
  • Human Remains and Animal Carcasses: Cultural and religious practices also contribute to the pollution. Remnants of partially burned or unburned bodies from funeral pyres, and animal carcasses are immersed in the river, adding organic waste and potentially disease-causing microorganisms.

Types of Pollutants and Their Sources

To illustrate the multifaceted nature of the pollution, here's a breakdown of the waste types and their origins:

Type of Pollutant Primary Source Impact on River Ecosystem
Organic Waste Untreated sewage, unburned bodies, animal carcasses Depletes oxygen, promotes bacterial growth, spreads diseases.
Chemical Pollutants Industrial waste, agricultural runoff Introduces toxins, heavy metals, and nutrient overload (eutrophication).
Particulate Matter Partially burned bodies, industrial discharge Increases turbidity, settles on riverbed, affects aquatic life habitats.

The Impact of Dense Population

The Ganges basin is one of the most densely populated regions on Earth. This high population density directly correlates with an increased generation of domestic, industrial, and agricultural waste. The sheer scale of human activity overwhelms existing waste management and treatment facilities, leading to the direct discharge of pollutants into the river, making it one of the most polluted rivers globally.