Water Quality in lower stretches of the River Ganga found to be alarming: Study

What is the news?

According to the findings of a study, Water Quality in the lower stretches of the River Ganga is in an alarming situation. 

About the study

A team of scientists has developed the Water Quality Index (WQI) of River Ganga.

What are the key findings of the study?

– Rapid human pressure and anthropogenic activities has resulted in release of untreated municipal and industrial sewages along with other forms of pollutants in the River Ganga. 

– Hence, as a result, there has been a marked increase in discharge of untreated municipal and industrial sewages in the lower stretch of River Ganges, due to intense population pressure on both sides of the river banks.

This will have severe consequences for many unique and biodiversity ecosystems such as the Sundarbans mangrove and endangered charismatic species such as the Gangetic Dolphin.

What is the significance of this study?

The findings from this study will be pivotal for long-term ecological health monitoring of the lower stretch of River Ganga, along with the integration of sensors and automation.

Source: This post is based on the article “Water Quality in lower stretches of the River Ganga found to be alarming: Study” published in PIB on 8th Dec 2021.