This article highlights the growing concern over groundwater contamination in India, particularly with nitrates.
Key findings:
Nearly 56% of India's districts have excessive nitrate levels in groundwater, posing health risks and environmental concerns.
States with high nitrate levels: Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu have the highest proportion of groundwater blocks with excessive nitrate levels.
Other contaminants: Besides nitrates, other contaminants like fluoride, arsenic, and uranium are also present in significant levels in groundwater, particularly in certain regions.
Over-exploitation of groundwater in many regions is leading to declining water levels and increasing contamination.
The Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) is expanding its groundwater monitoring network by installing digital water level recorders, which will improve data collection and analysis.
Concerns:
Health impacts: High nitrate levels in drinking water can lead to health problems like methemoglobinemia (blue baby syndrome) in infants.
Environmental impact: Nitrate pollution can lead to algal blooms in surface waters, disrupting aquatic ecosystems.
Over-exploitation of groundwater: Over-extraction of groundwater can lead to depletion of water resources, affecting agriculture and other sectors.
Addressing the issue:
Sustainable agricultural practices: Reducing the use of chemical fertilizers and promoting organic farming practices can help minimize nitrate pollution.
Improved wastewater treatment: Proper treatment of sewage and industrial effluents can prevent the contamination of groundwater.
Rainwater harvesting: Promoting rainwater harvesting and other water conservation measures can help reduce dependence on groundwater.
Effective groundwater management: Implementing regulations and policies to ensure sustainable groundwater extraction and prevent over-exploitation.
This article underscores the critical need for effective groundwater management and pollution control measures to ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital resource.
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