Clean and safe drinking water, which we consider as a basic right, is still a dream for millions in our country? Why, you may ask. Reasons are many.
Majority of the sewage that India generates is not treated. Untreated sewage is disposed of into rivers polluting them in a big way. Apart from untreated sewage, river basins have also become the dumping ground for plastic garbage, including micro-plastics from face masks used during the pandemic. According to ‘The Impact of Covid-19 on Plastic Waste Management in South Asia‘ by the World Bank, the Indus and Ganges are among the world’s ten most polluted river systems. They cumulatively carry more than half of the plastic waste generated into the ocean.
Water Pollution in India is not limited to a specific region
Many rivers in India are polluted, especially with toxic metals. Metals like fluoride, which cause teeth discolouration and potentially other health concerns, have already been reported in the groundwater of Amravati-Nagpur and the coastal South Konkan, where 93% of the residents depend on it for daily consumption. This is only an example.
Different regions in India have different reasons for river water pollution. While it is untreated sewage in some areas, it is coal combustion in some other regions. Some rivers are polluted due to industrial affluents while commercial establishments cause pollutions in some other regions. However, it is alarming that almost every water sample in every season, including monsoon, failed to pass the standards set for clean and safe drinking water by the Bureau of Indian Standards.
India’s ever expanding population and the need for clean and safe drinking water
With India’s population expected to touch 150 crore by 2040, the need for clean drinking water is only going to escalate. The groundwater level is already on the decline in 56% of the country. Currently, water demand in the corridor is shared by farmers (83%), industries (10%) and cities (7%). Governments have its hands full as far as finding solutions are concerned. The Jal Jeevan Mission is a step in this direction. As per JJM, it is envisioned to provide safe and adequate drinking water through individual household tap connections by 2024 to all households in rural India.
However, citizens also have a responsibility as far as water pollution is concerned. Ensuring sewage treatment, using zero plastic, water saving initiatives are simple yet effective methods to reduce water pollution. Doulton India supports all initiatives that help to save water and reduce pollution. Sustainability is one of Doulton’s key features. Doulton Water filters use 100% eco-friendly ceramic candles and do not waste water in the name of filtration. Know more about Doulton here.
