Industrial pollution of river water is a significant environmental issue in India. Discuss the various mitigation measures to deal with this problem and also the government’s initiatives in this regard. (150 words)
Industrial pollution significantly contaminates India’s river water, with over 70% of surface water impacted by industrial waste (CPCB, 2023). This poses serious threats to ecosystems and public health.
Mitigation Measures:
- Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs): Mandatory for industries to treat wastewater, with over 1,100 monitored in the Ganga basin.
- Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD): Enforces no liquid waste from highly polluting industries like textiles.
- Cleaner Technologies: Promoting eco-friendly technologies with fiscal incentives, reducing pollutant loads.
- Strict Enforcement: Heavy fines imposed; ₹200 crores collected in 2022 for violations.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborative efforts for sustainable industrial practices.
Government Initiatives:
- National River Conservation Plan (NRCP): Targets pollution control across 32 rivers.
- Namami Gange: Focuses on cleaning the Ganga with sewage treatment and effluent monitoring.
- National Water Quality Monitoring Program: Monitors water quality at 4,000+ stations.
- Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) Regulations: Enforces effluent standards with real-time monitoring.
Conclusion: Strict enforcement, advanced technologies, and accountability are crucial to mitigate river pollution sustainably.
