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water pollutionWater pollution is the contamination of water bodies such as lakes, rivers, oceans, and groundwater caused by human activities, which can be harmful to organisms and plants which live in these water bodies.

Although natural phenomena such as volcanoes, algae blooms, storms, and earthquakes also cause major changes in water quality and the ecological status of water, water is typically referred to as polluted when it impaired by anthropogenic contaminants and either does not support a human use (like serving as drinking water) or undergoes a marked shift in its ability to support its constituent biotic communities. Water pollution has many causes and characteristics. The primary sources of water pollution are generally grouped into two categories based on their point of origin. Point-source pollution refers to contaminants that enter a waterway through a discrete "point source". Examples of this category include discharges from a wastewater treatment plant, outfalls from a factory, leaking underground tanks, etc. The second primary category, non-point source pollution, refers to contamination that, as its name suggests, does not originate from a single discrete source. Non-point source pollution is often a cumulative effect of small amounts of contaminants gathered from a large area. Nutrient runoff in storm water from sheet flow over an agricultural field, or metals and hydrocarbons from an area with high impervious surfaces and vehicular traffic are examples of non-point source pollution. The primary focus of legislation and efforts to curb water pollution for the past several decades was first aimed at point sources. As point sources have been effectively regulated, greater attention has come to be placed on non-point source contributions, especially in rapidly urbanizing/suburbanizing or developing areas.

The specific contaminants leading to pollution in water include a wide spectrum of chemicals, pathogens, and physical or sensory changes. While many of

the chemicals and substances that are regulated may be naturally occurring (iron, manganese, etc) the concentration is often the key in determining what is

a natural component of water, and what is a contaminant. Many of the chemical substances are toxic. Pathogens can produce waterborne diseases in either

human or animal hosts. Alteration of water's physical chemistry include acidity, electrical conductivity, temperature, and eutrophication. Eutrophication is

the fertilisation of surface water by nutrients that were previously scarce. Water pollution is a major problem in the global context. It has been suggested

that it is the leading worldwide cause of deaths and diseases,[1][2] and that it accounts for the deaths of more than 14,000 people daily.[2]

Water pollution

When toxic substances enter lakes, streams, rivers, oceans, and other water bodies, they get dissolved or lie suspended in water or get deposited on the bed. This results in the pollution of water whereby the quality of the water deteriorates, affecting aquatic ecosystems. Pollutants can also seep down and affect the groundwater deposits.

Water pollution has many sources. The most polluting of them are the city sewage and industrial waste discharged into the rivers. The facilities to treat waste water are not adequate in any city in India. Presently, only about 10% of the waste water generated is treated; the rest is discharged as it is into our water bodies. Due to this, pollutants enter groundwater, rivers, and other water bodies. Such water, which ultimately ends up in our households, is often highly contaminated and carries disease-causing microbes. Agricultural run-off, or the water from the fields that drains into rivers, is another major water pollutant as it contains fertilizers and pesticides.

Domestic sewage refers to waste water that is discarded from households. Also referred to as sanitary sewage, such water contains a wide variety of dissolved and suspended impurities.

It amounts to a very small fraction of the sewage by weight. But it is large by volume and contains impurities such as organic materials and plant nutrients that tend to rot. The main organic materials are food and vegetable waste, plant nutrient come from chemical soaps, washing powders, etc. Domestic sewage is also very likely to contain disease-causing microbes. Thus, disposal of domestic waste water is a significant technical problem. Sewage generated from the urban areas in India has multiplied manifold since 1947.

Today, many people dump their garbage into streams, lakes, rivers, and seas, thus making water bodies the final resting place of cans, bottles, plastics, and other household products. The various substances that we use for keeping our houses clean add to water pollution as they contain harmful chemicals. In the past, people mostly used soaps made from animal and

  

Biochemical oxygen demand, or BOD

The amount of organic material that can rot in the sewage is measured by the biochemical oxygen demand. BOD is the amount of oxygen required by micro-organisms to decompose the organic substances in sewage. Therefore, the more organic material there is in the sewage, the higher the BOD. It is among the most important parameters for the design and operation of sewage treatment plants. BOD levels of industrial sewage may be many times that of domestic sewage. Dissolved oxygen is an important factor that determines the quality of water in lakes and rivers. The higher the concentration of dissolved oxygen, the better the water quality. When sewage enters a lake or stream, micro-organisms begin to decompose the organic materials. Oxygen is consumed as micro-organisms use it in their metabolism. This can quickly deplete the available oxygen in the water. When the dissolved oxygen levels drop too low, many aquatic species perish. In fact, if the oxygen level drops to zero, the water will become septic. When organic compounds decompose without oxygen, it gives rise to the undesirable odours usually associated with septic or putrid conditions.

vegetable fat for all types of washing. But most of today’s cleaning products are synthetic detergents and come from the petrochemical industry. Most detergents and washing powders contain phosphates, which are used to soften the water among other things. These and other chemicals contained in washing powders affect the health of all forms of life in the water.

Agricultural Run off

The use of land for agriculture and the practices followed in cultivation greatly affect the quality of groundwater. Intensive cultivation of crops causes chemicals from fertilizers (e.g. nitrate) and pesticides to seep into the groundwater, a process commonly known as leaching. Routine applications of fertilizers and pesticides for agriculture and indiscriminate disposal of industrial and domestic wastes are increasingly being recognized as significant sources of water pollution.

The high nitrate content in groundwater is mainly from irrigation run-off from agricultural fields where chemical fertilizers have been used indiscriminately.

Industrial effluents

Waste water from manufacturing or chemical processes in industries contributes to water pollution. Industrial waste water usually contains specific and readily identifiable chemical compounds. During the last fifty years, the number of industries in India has grown rapidly. But water pollution is concentrated within a few subsectors, mainly in the form of toxic wastes and organic pollutants. Out of this a large portion can be traced to the processing of industrial chemicals and to the food products industry. In fact, a number of large- and medium-sized industries in the region covered by the Ganga Action Plan do not have adequate effluent treatment facilities. Most of these defaulting industries are sugar mills, distilleries, leather processing industries, and thermal power stations. Most major industries have treatment facilities for industrial effluents. But this is not the case with small-scale industries, which cannot afford enormous investments in pollution control equipment as their profit margin is very slender.

Effects of water pollution

The effects of water pollution are not only devastating to people but also to animals, fish, and birds. Polluted water is unsuitable for drinking, recreation, agriculture, and industry. It diminishes the aesthetic quality of lakes and rivers. More seriously, contaminated water destroys aquatic life and reduces its reproductive ability. Eventually, it is a hazard to human

Eutrophication

When fresh water is artificially supplemented with nutrients, it results in an abnormal increase in the growth of water plants. This is known as eutrophication. The discharge of waste from industries, agriculture, and urban communities into water bodies generally stretches the biological capacities of aquatic systems. Chemical run-off from fields also adds nutrients to water. Excess nutrients cause the water body to become choked with organic substances and organisms. When organic matter exceeds the capacity of the micro-organisms in water that break down and recycle the organic matter, it encourages rapid growth, or blooms, of algae. When they die, the remains of the algae add to the organic wastes already in the water; eventually, the water becomes deficient in oxygen. Anaerobic organisms (those that do not require oxygen to live) then attack the organic wastes, releasing gases such as methane and hydrogen sulphide, which are harmful to the oxygen-requiring (aerobic) forms of life. The result is a foul-smelling, waste-filled body of water. This has already occurred in such places as Lake Erie and the Baltic Sea, and is a growing problem in freshwater lakes all over India. Eutrophication can produce problems such as bad tastes and odours as well as green scum algae. Also the growth of rooted plants increases, which decreases the amount of oxygen in the deepest waters of the lake. It also leads to the death of all forms of life in the water bodies.

health. Nobody can escape the effects of water pollution.

The individual and the community can help minimize water pollution. By simple housekeeping and management practices the amount of waste generated can be minimized.

 

 

Pollution v • d • e

Air pollution

Acid rain • Air Quality Index • Atmospheric dispersion modeling •

Chlorofluorocarbon • Global dimming • Global distillation• Global warming • Indoor air quality • Ozone depletion •

Particulate • Smog

Water pollution

Eutrophication • Hypoxia • Marine pollution • Marine debris • Ocean

acidification • Oil spill • Ship pollution • Surface runoff • Thermal pollution •

Wastewater • Waterborne diseases • Water quality • Water stagnation

Soil contamination

Bioremediation • Herbicide • Pesticide • Soil Guideline Values (SGVs)

Radioactive contamination

Actinides in the environment • Environmental radioactivity • Fission

product • Nuclear fallout • Plutonium in the environment • Radiation poisoning • Radium in the environment • Uranium in

the environment

Other types of pollution

Invasive species • Light pollution • Noise pollution • Radio spectrum pollution •

Visual pollution

Inter-government treaties

Montreal Protocol • Kyoto Protocol • CLRTAP • OSPAR

Major organizations

DEFRA • EPA • Global Atmosphere Watch • EEA • Greenpeace • American

Lung Association

Related topics

Environmental Science • Natural environment

Contents[hide]

1 Contaminants 2 Transport and chemical reactions of water pollutants 3 Sampling & monitoring 4 Regulatory framework 5 References 6 See also

7 External links

[edit] ContaminantsContaminants may include organic and inorganic substances.

Some organic water pollutants are:

Insecticides and herbicides, a huge range of organohalides and other chemicals Bacteria , often is from sewage or livestock operations Food processing waste, including pathogens Tree and brush debris from logging operations VOCs (volatile organic compounds), such as industrial solvents, from improper

storage DNAPLs (dense non-aqueous phase liquids), such as chlorinated solvents, which

may fall at the bottom of reservoirs, since they don't mix well with water and are more dense

Petroleum Hydrocarbons including fuels (gasoline, diesel, jet fuels, and fuel oils) and lubricants (motor oil) from oil field operations, refineries, pipelines, retail service station's underground storage tanks, and transfer operations. Note: VOCs include gasoline-range hydrocarbons.

Detergents Various chemical compounds found in personal hygiene and cosmetic products Disinfection by-products (DBPs) found in chemically disinfected drinking water

Some inorganic water pollutants include:

Spill of oil over the seas is the biggest danger. Heavy metals including acid mine drainage Acidity caused by industrial discharges (especially sulfur dioxide from power

plants) Pre-production industrial raw resin pellets, an industrial pollutant Chemical waste as industrial by products Fertilizers , in runoff from agriculture including nitrates and phosphates Silt in surface runoff from construction sites, logging, slash and burn practices or

land clearing sites

Macroscopic, that is, large visible items polluting the water are termed marine debris, and can include such items as:

Nurdles , small ubiquitous waterborne plastic pellets Shipwrecks , large derelict ships

[edit] Transport and chemical reactions of water pollutantsMost water pollutants are eventually carried by the rivers into the oceans. In some areas of the world the influence can be traced hundred miles from the mouth by studies using hydrology transport models. Advanced computer models such as SWMM or the DSSAM Model have been used in many locations worldwide to examine the fate of pollutants in aquatic systems. Indicator filter feeding species such as copepods have also been used to study pollutant fates in the New York Bight, for example. The highest toxin loads are not directly at the mouth of the Hudson River, but 100 kilometers south, since several days

are required for incorporation into planktonic tissue. The Hudson discharge flows south along the coast due to coriolis force. Further south then are areas of oxygen depletion, caused by chemicals using up oxygen and by algae blooms, caused by excess nutrients from algal cell death and decomposition. Fish and shellfish kills have been reported, because toxins climb the foodchain after small fish consume copepods, then large fish eat smaller fish, etc. Each successive step up the food chain causes a stepwise concentration of pollutants such as heavy metals (e.g. mercury) and persistent organic pollutants such as DDT. This is known as biomagnification which is occasionally used interchangeably with bioaccumulation.

The big gyres in the oceans trap floating plastic debris. The North Pacific Gyre for example has collected the so-called "Great Pacific Garbage Patch" that is now estimated at 100 times the size of Texas. Many of these long-lasting pieces wind up in the stomachs of marine birds and animals. This results in obstruction of digestive pathways which leads to reduced appetite or even starvation.

Many chemicals undergo reactive decay or chemically change especially over long periods of time in groundwater reservoirs. A noteworthy class of such chemicals are the chlorinated hydrocarbons such as trichloroethylene (used in industrial metal degreasing and electronics manufacturing) and tetrachloroethylene used in the dry cleaning industry (note latest advances in liquid carbon dioxide in dry cleaning that avoids all use of chemicals). Both of these chemicals, which are carcinogens themselves, undergo partial decomposition reactions, leading to new hazardous chemicals (including dichloroethylene and vinyl chloride).

Groundwater pollution is much more difficult to abate than surface pollution because groundwater can move great distances through unseen aquifers. Non-porous aquifers such as clays partially purify water of bacteria by simple filtration (adsorption and absorption), dilution, and, in some cases, chemical reactions and biological activity: however, in some cases, the pollutants merely transform to soil contaminants. Groundwater that moves through cracks and caverns is not filtered and can be transported as easily as surface water. In fact, this can be aggravated by the human tendency to use natural sinkholes as dumps in areas of Karst topography.

There are a variety of secondary effects stemming not from the original pollutant, but a derivative condition. Some of these secondary impacts are:

Silt bearing surface runoff from can inhibit the penetration of sunlight through the water column, hampering photosynthesis in aquatic plants.

Thermal pollution can induce fish kills and invasion by new thermophilic species. This can cause further problems to existing wildlife.

[edit] Sampling & monitoring

This article or section is missing citations or needs footnotes.Using inline citations helps guard against copyright violations and factual inaccuracies. (August 2008)

Environmental Scientists preparing water autosamplers.

Sampling water can be done by several methods, depending on the accuracy needed and the characteristics of the contaminant. Many contamination events are sharply restricted in time, most commonly in association with rain events. For this reason 'grab' samples are often inadequate for fully quantifying contaminant levels. Scientists gathering this type of data often employ auto-sampler devices that pump increments of water at either time or discharge intervals.

[edit] Regulatory frameworkIn the UK there are common law rights (civil rights) to protect the passage of water across land unfettered in either quality of quantity. Criminal laws dating back to the 16th century exercised some control over water pollution but it was not until the River (Prevention of pollution )Acts 1951 - 1961 were enacted that any systematic control over water pollution was established. These laws were strengthened and extended in the Control of Pollution Act 1984 which has since been updated and modified by a series of further acts. It is a criminal offense to either pollute a lake, river, groundwater or the sea or to discharge any liquid into such water bodies without proper authority. In England and Wales such permission can only be issued by the Environment Agency and in Scotland by SEPA.

In the USA, concern over water pollution resulted in the enactment of state anti-pollution laws in the latter half of the 19th century, and federal legislation enacted in 1899. The Refuse Act of the federal Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 prohibits the disposal of any refuse matter from into either the nation's navigable rivers, lakes, streams, and other navigable bodies of water, or any tributary to such waters, unless one has first obtained a permit. The Water Pollution Control Act, passed in 1948, gave authority to the Surgeon General to reduce water pollution.

Growing public awareness and concern for controlling water pollution led to enactment of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972. As amended in 1977, this law became commonly known as the Clean Water Act. The Act established the basic mechanisms for regulating contaminant discharge. It established the authority for the United States Environmental Protection Agency to implement wastewater standards for industry. The Clean Water Act also continued requirements to set water quality standards for all contaminants in surface waters. Further amplification of the Act continued including the enactment of the Great Lakes Legacy Act of 2002.[3]

WATER POLLUTION AND SOCIETY

ByDavid Krantz and Brad Kifferstein

  

 INTRODUCTION 

     Comprising over 70% of the Earth?s surface, water is undoubtedly the most precious natural resource that exists on our planet.  Without the seemingly invaluable compound comprised of hydrogen and oxygen, life on Earth would be non-existent: it is essential for everything on our planet to grow and prosper.  Although we as humans recognize this fact, we disregard it by polluting our rivers, lakes, and oceans. Subsequently, we are slowly but surely harming our planet to the point where organisms are dying at a very alarming rate.  In addition to innocent organisms dying off, our drinking water has become greatly affected as is our ability to use water for recreational purposes.  In order to combat water pollution, we must understand the problems and become part of the solution.

  

POINT AND NONPOINT SOURCES 

    According to the American College Dictionary, pollution is defined as:  ?to make foul or unclean; dirty.?  Water pollution occurs when a body of water is adversely affected due to the addition of large amounts of materials to the water.  When it is unfit for its intended use, water is considered polluted.  Two types of water pollutants exist; point source and nonpoint source.  Point sources of pollution occur when harmful substances are emitted directly into a body of water.  The Exxon Valdez oil spill best illustrates a point source water pollution.  A nonpoint source delivers pollutants indirectly through environmental changes.  An example of this type of water pollution is when fertilizer from a field is carried into a stream by rain, in the form of run-off which in turn effects aquatic life.  The technology exists for point sources of pollution to be monitored and regulated, although political factors may complicate matters. Nonpoint sources are much more difficult to control.  Pollution arising from nonpoint sources accounts for a majority of the

contaminants in streams and lakes.  

 

CAUSES OF POLLUTION  

     Many causes of pollution including sewage and fertilizers contain nutrients such as nitrates and phosphates.  In excess levels, nutrients over stimulate the growth of aquatic plants and algae.  Excessive growth of these types of organisms consequently clogs our waterways, use up dissolved oxygen as they decompose, and block light to deeper waters.

This, in turn, proves very harmful to aquatic organisms as it affects the respiration ability or fish and other invertebrates that reside in water.      Pollution is also caused when silt and other suspended solids, such as soil, washoff plowed fields, construction and logging sites, urban areas, and eroded river banks when it rains.  Under natural conditions, lakes, rivers, and other water bodies undergo Eutrophication, an aging process that slowly fills in the water body with sediment and organic matter.  When these sediments enter various bodies of water, fish respirationbecomes impaired, plant productivity and water depth become reduced, and aquatic organisms and their environments become suffocated.  Pollution in the form of organic material enters waterways in many different forms as sewage, as leaves and grass clippings, or as runoff from livestock feedlots and pastures.  When natural bacteria and protozoan in the water break down this organic material, they begin to use up the oxygen dissolved in the water.  Many types of fish and bottom-dwelling animals cannot survive when levels of dissolved oxygen drop below two to five parts per million.  When this occurs, it kills aquatic organisms in large numbers which leads to disruptions in the food chain.

Polluted River in the United Kingdom

The pollution of rivers and streams with chemical contaminants has become one of the most crutial environmental problems within the 20th century. Waterborne chemical

pollution entering rivers and streams cause tramendous amounts of destruction.   

     Pathogens are another type of pollution that prove very harmful.  They can cause many illnesses that range from typhoid and dysentery to minor respiratory and skin diseases.  Pathogens include

such organisms as bacteria, viruses, and protozoan.  These pollutants enter waterways through untreated sewage, storm drains, septic tanks, runoff from farms, and particularly boats that dump sewage.  Though microscopic, these pollutants have a tremendous effect evidenced by their ability to cause sickness.  

ADDITIONAL FORMS OF WATER POLLUTION 

     Three last forms of water pollution exist in the forms of petroleum, radioactive substances, and heat.  Petroleum often pollutes waterbodies in the form of oil, resulting from oil spills.  The previously mentioned Exxon Valdez is an example of this type of water pollution.  These large-scale accidental discharges of petroleum are an important cause of pollution along shore lines.  Besides the supertankers, off-shore drilling operations contribute a large share of pollution.  One estimate is that one ton of oil is spilled for every million tons of oil transported.  This is equal to about 0.0001 percent. Radioactive substances are produced in the form of waste from nuclear power plants, and from the industrial, medical, and scientific use of radioactive materials.  Specific forms of waste are uranium and thorium mining and refining.  The last form of water pollution is heat.  Heat is a pollutant because increased temperatures result in the deaths of many aquatic organisms.  These decreases in temperatures are caused when a discharge of cooling water by factories and power plants occurs.

Demonstrators Protest Drilling

Oil pollution is a growing problem, particularly devestating to coastal wildlife.  Small quantities of oil spread rapidly across long distances to form deadly oil slicks. In this picture, demonstrators with "oil-covered" plastic animals protest a potential drilling

project in Key Largo, Florida. Whether or not accidental spills occur during the project, its impact on the delicate marine ecosystem of the coral reefs could be devastating.

 

Oil Spill Clean-upWorkers use special nets to clean up a California beach after an oil tanker spill. Tanker

spills are an increasing environmental problem because once oil has spilled, it is virtually impossible to completely remove or contain it. Even small amounts spread rapidly across

large areas of water. Because oil and water do not mix, the oil floats on the water and then washes up on broad expanses of shoreline. Attempts to chemically treat or sink the

oil may further disrupt marine and beach ecosystems.  

 CLASSIFYING WATER POLLUTION  

    The major sources of water pollution can be classified as municipal, industrial, and agricultural.  Municipal water pollution consists of waste water from homes and commercial establishments.  For many years, the main goal of treating municipal wastewater was simply to reduce its content of suspended solids, oxygen-demanding materials, dissolved inorganic compounds, and harmful bacteria.  In recent years, however, more stress has been placed on improving means of disposal of the solid residues from the municipal treatment processes.  The basic methods of treating municipal wastewater fall into three stages: primary treatment, including grit removal, screening, grinding, and sedimentation; secondary treatment, which entails oxidation of dissolved organic matter by means of using biologically active sludge, which is then filtered off; and tertiary treatment, in which advanced biological methods of nitrogen removal and chemical and physical methods such as granular filtration and activated carbon absorption are employed.  The handling and disposal of solid residues can account for 25 to 50 percent of the capital and operational costs of a treatment plant.  The characteristics of industrial waste waters can differ considerably both within and among industries.  The impact of industrial discharges depends not only on their

collective characteristics, such as biochemical oxygen demand and the amount of suspended solids, but also on their content of specific inorganic and organic substances. Three options are available in controlling industrial wastewater.  Control can take place at the point of generation in the plant; wastewater can be pretreated for discharge to municipal treatment sources; or wastewater can be treated completely at the plant and either reused or discharged directly into receiving waters.

Wastewater TreatmentRaw sewage includes waste from sinks, toilets, and industrial processes. Treatment of the sewage is required before it can be safely buried, used, or released back into local water systems. In a treatment plant, the waste is passed through a series of screens, chambers,

and chemical processes to reduce its bulk and toxicity. The three general phases of treatment are primary, secondary, and tertiary. During primary treatment, a large

percentage of the suspended solids and inorganic material is removed from the sewage. The focus of secondary treatment is reducing organic material by accelerating natural biological processes. Tertiary treatment is necessary when the water will be reused; 99

percent of solids are removed and various chemical processes are used to ensure the water is as free from impurity as possible.

   

 Agriculture, including commercial livestock and poultry farming, is the source of many organic and inorganic pollutants in surface waters and groundwater.  These contaminants include both sediment from erosion cropland and compounds of phosphorus and nitrogen that partly originate in animal wastes and commercial fertilizers.  Animal wastes are high in oxygen demanding material, nitrogen and phosphorus, and they often harbor pathogenic organisms.  Wastes from commercial feeders are contained and disposed of on land; their main threat to natural waters, therefore, is from runoff and leaching.  Control may involve settling basins for liquids,

limited biological treatment in aerobic or anaerobic lagoons, and a variety of other methods.  

 

GROUND WATER 

     Ninety-five percent of all fresh water on earth is ground water.  Ground water is found in natural rock formations.  These formations, called aquifers, are a vital natural resource with many uses.  Nationally, 53% of the population relies on ground water as a source of drinking water.  In rural areas this figure is even higher.  Eighty one percent of community water is dependent on ground water.  Although the 1992 Section 305(b) State Water Quality Reports indicate that, overall, the Nation?s ground water quality is good to excellent, many local areas have experienced significant ground water contamination. Some examples are leaking underground storage tanks and municipal landfills.

   

LEGISLATION 

     Several forms of legislation have been passed in recent decades to try to control water pollution.  In 1970, the Clean Water Act provided 50 billion dollars to cities and states to build wastewater facilities.  This has helped control surface water pollution from industrial and municipal sources throughout the United States.  When congress passed the Clean Water Act in 1972, states were given primary authority to set their own standards for their water.  In addition to these standards, the act required that all state beneficial uses and their criteria must comply with the ?fishable and swimmable? goals of the act.  This essentially means that state beneficial uses must be able to support aquatic life and recreational use.  Because it is impossible to test water for every type of disease-causing organism, states usually look to identify indicator bacteria.  One for a example is a bacteria known as fecal coliforms.(Figure 1 shows the quality of water for each every state in the United States, click on the US link). These indicator bacteria suggest that a certain selection of water may be contaminated with untreated sewage and that other, more dangerous, organisms are present.  These legislations are an important part in the fight against water pollution.  They are useful in preventing Envioronmental catastrophes.  The graph shows reported pollution incidents since 1989-1994.  If stronger legislations existed, perhaps these events would never have occurred.

  

  figure 1

GLOBAL WATER POLLUTION 

     Estimates suggest that nearly 1.5 billion people lack safe drinking water and that at least 5 million deaths per year can be attributed to waterborne diseases. With over 70 percent of the planet covered by oceans, people have long acted as if these very bodies of water could serve as a limitless dumping ground for wastes. Raw sewage, garbage, and oil spills have begun to overwhelm the diluting capabilities of the oceans, and most coastal waters are now polluted. Beaches around the world are closed regularly, often because of high amounts of bacteria from sewage disposal, and marine wildlife is beginning to suffer.

     Perhaps the biggest reason for developing a worldwide effort to monitor and restrict global pollution is the fact that most forms of pollution do not respect national boundaries. The first major international conference on environmental issues was held in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1972 and was sponsored by the United Nations (UN). This meeting, at which the United States took a leading role, was controversial because many developing countries were fearful that a focus on environmental protection was a means for the developed world to keep the undeveloped world in an economically subservient position. The most important outcome of the conference was the creation of the United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP).   UNEP was designed to be ?the environmental conscience of the United Nations,? and, in an attempt to allay fears of the developing world, it became the first UN agency to be headquartered in a developing country, with offices in Nairobi, Kenya. In addition to attempting to achieve scientific consensus about major environmental issues, a major focus

for UNEP has been the study of ways to encourage sustainable development increasing standards of living without destroying the environment. At the time of UNEP's creation in 1972, only 11 countries had environmental agencies. Ten years later that number had grown to 106, of which 70 were in developing countries.

              

WATER QUALITY 

    Water quality is closely linked to water use and to the state of economic development.  In industrialized countries, bacterial contamination of surface water caused serious health problems in major cities throughout the mid 1800?s.  By the turn of the century, cities in Europe and North America began building sewer networks to route domestic wastes downstream of water intakes.  Development of these sewage networks and waste treatment facilities in urban areas has expanded tremendously in the past two decades.  However, the rapid growth of the urban population (especially in Latin America and Asia) has outpaced the ability of governments to expand

sewage and water infrastructure.  While waterborne diseases have been eliminated in the developed world, outbreaks of cholera and other similar diseases still occur with alarming frequency in the developing countries.  Since World War II and the birth of the ?chemical age?, water quality has been heavily impacted worldwide by industrial and agricultural chemicals. Eutrophication of surface waters from human and agricultural wastes and nitrification of groundwater from agricultural practices has greatly affected large parts of the world. Acidification of surface waters by air pollution is a recent phenomenon and threatens aquatic life in many area of the world.  In developed countries, these general types of pollution have occurred sequentially with the result that most developed countries have successfully dealt with major surface water pollution.  In contrast, however, newly industrialized countries such as China, India, Thailand, Brazil, and Mexico are now facing all these issues simultaneously.

  

CONCLUSION 

        Clearly, the problems associated with water pollution have the capabilities to disrupt life on our planet to a great extent. Congress has passed laws to try to combat water pollution thus acknowledging the fact that water pollution is, indeed, a seriousissue. But the government alone cannot solve the entire problem.  It is ultimately up to us, to be informed, responsible and involved when it comes to the problems we face with our water.  We must become familiar with our local water resources and learn about ways for disposing harmful household wastes so they don?t end up in sewage treatment plants that can?t handle them or landfills not designed to receive hazardous materials.  In our yards, we must determine whether additional nutrients are needed before fertilizers are applied, and look for alternatives where fertilizers might run off into surface waters. We have to preserve existing trees and plant new trees and shrubs to help prevent soil erosion and promote infiltration of water into the soil.  Around our houses, we must keep litter, pet waste, leaves, and grass clippings out of gutters and storm drains.  These are just a few of the many ways in which we, as humans, have the ability to combat water pollution.  As we head into the 21st century, awareness and education will most assuredly continue to be the two most important ways to prevent water pollution.  If these measures are not taken and water pollution continues, life on earth will suffer severely.      Global environmental collapse is not inevitable. But the developed world must work with the developing world to ensure that new industrialized economies do not add to the world's environmental problems. Politicians must think of sustainable development rather than economic expansion. Conservation strategies have to become more widely accepted, and people must learn that energy use can be dramatically diminished without sacrificing comfort.  In short, with the technology that currently exists, the years of global environmental mistreatment can begin to be reversed.

13WATER POLLUTION0601–040. Aftab Begum SY, Noorjahan CM, Dawood Sharif S (PG Res Dept Zoo,Justice Basheer Ahmad Sayeed Coll Women, Chennai 600018). Physico-chemical andfungal analysis of a fertilizer factory effluent. Nature Env Polln Techno, 4(4) (2005),529-531 [12 Ref].Physico-chemical parameters and analysis of untreated fertilizer effluent were studiedand the results revealed that the parameters like EC, TDS, TSS, BOD, COD andammonia are high compared to permissible limits of CPCB (1995), and fungal analysis

showed the presence of 15 species isolated on Malt Extract Agar (MEA) medium therebyindicating the pollutional load of the effluent.0601–041. Anand Chetna, Akolkar Pratima, Chakrabarti Rina (B- U&V 25A, ShalimarBagh, Delhi-110088). Bacteriological water quality status of river Yamuna in Delhi. JEnviron Bio, 27(1) (2006), 97-101 [8 Ref].Study reveals the impact of diverse anthropogenic activities as well as the monsoon effecton the bacterial population of river Yamuna in Delhi stretch. Microbial populationcontributed mainly through human activities prevailed in the entire stretch of Yamunariver with reduction in bacterial counts during monsoon period due to flushing effect.Bacteriological assessment does not provide an integrated effect of pollution but onlyindicate that water quality at the time of sampling. Hence, this parameter is time andspace specific.0601–042. Arthur James R, Emmanuel KV, Scaria Rose, Thanasekaran K (Dept MarineSci, Bhartiadasan Univ, Tiruchi 620018). Evaluation of domestic wastewatertreatment using various natural filter media. Asian J Water Env Polln, 3(1) (2000),103-110 [24 Ref].The performance of combined anaerobic and aerobic treatment system with differentmedias and their efficiencies were examined for domestic wastewater. In anaerobic filter,gravel media show higher efficiency than slag media and PO4 removal is proven to fail inthe slag media. Gravel (2-4 mm) and pebble (8-10 mm) gives better performance thansand media (0.5 mm) in aerobic filter. Combination of these three-system gives excellentalternative (89 to 94.5% efficiency) to conventional treatment system, which proves andreduced the operational cost.140601–043. Athikesavan S, Vincent S, Velmurugan B, Vasuki R (Unit Environ HlthBiotechno, PG Res Dept Zoo, Loyola Coll, Chennai 600034). Accumulation of nickel in

the different tissues of silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix). Env Eco, 24(5) (1)(2006), 143-146 [25 Ref].Nickel chloride widely used in industries was investigated in the present study. Silvercarp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) were selected for the bioassay experiments. Thebioaccumulation of nickel was studied in the gill, liver, intestine and kidney of the fish.Fish were exposed to 10, 20 and 30 days in sublethal concentration of nickel (5.7 mg /liter). This heavy metal is predominantly accumulated in liver followed by kidney,intestine and gill.0601–044. Barik RN, Pradhan B, Patel RK (Dept Chem, Natl Inst Techno, Rourkela769008). Trace elements in ground water of Paradip area. J Indl Polln Contl, 21(2)(2005), 355-362 [13 Ref].The degree of trace element pollution and the suitability of groundwater for drinkingpurpose was assessed. The concentration of Pb was found to be present above maximumpermissible limit. More than permissible limit of Fe was found around the industrial area.The concentrations of Zn, Cu and Mn are well below the maximum permissible limit asrecommended by ISI (1983) for drinking purpose.0601–045. Bhat Subhas Chandra, Goswami Saswati, Ghosh Uday Chand* (* GovtTeachers Trng Coll, Malda, West Bengal). Removal of trace chromium (VI) fromcontaminated water: biosorption by Ipomea aquatica. J Environ Sci Engng, 47(4)(2005), 316-321 [25 Ref].Ipomea aquatica a wetland plant, has ability to remove Cr(VI) from the contaminatedwater by transforming Cr (VI) to Cr(III). This adsorption of Cr(VI) basically takes placesin roots of this plant. The lower level of contamination requires greater contact time thanthe higher one to bring down Cr(VI) below the permissible level. The study revealed thatthe plant Ipomea aquatica adsorbs Cr(VI) from the contaminated water very slowlycompared to the other reported plants.

0601–046. Chavan RP, Lokhande RS, Rajput SI (Dept Chem, Dnyanasadan Coll, Thane,Maharashtra). Monitoring of organic pollutants in Thane creek water. Nature EnvPolln Techno, 4(4) (2005), 633-636 [4 Ref].Investigation was carried out to study the different organic pollutants present in theThane creek water. The creek water shows high values of BOD and COD along with15phenolic compounds, detergents, alcohols, ether and acetone, which are harmful toaquatic life. The origin of this pollutants is mainly from the entry of effluents fromsurrounding industries.0601–047. Das Rajib, Samal Nihar Ranjan, Roy Pankaj Kumar, Mitra Debojyoti* (*DeptMechanical Engng, Jadavpur Univ, Kolkata 700032). Role of electrical conductivity asan indicator of pollution in shallow lakes. Asian J Water Env Polln, 3(1) (2006), 143-146 [4 Ref].Experiments carried out at Subhas Sarovar (lake) and Rabindra Sarovar (lake), Kolkata,indicates that EC has a linear relationship with Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), which isvalidated by the findings at various other lakes throughout the world. It is also observedthat EC increases with increase in TDS, which in turn indicates increased concentrationof sulphates and other ions.0601–048. D’Cruz FG, Miranda MTP (PG Res Dept Zoo, Fatima Mata Natl Coll Kollam691001). Effect of KMML (Kerala Minerals and Metals Limited) titanium dioxideindustrial effluents on the plankton biomass of Vattakayal - an estuarine system inKerala. Uttar Pradesh J Zoo, 25(2) (2005), 151-156 [21 Ref].There was drastic reduction of plankton biomass at station I which directly receives theeffluents. Station II which was near to Station I also recorded decreased values. StationIII closer to the river discharge site and Station IV closer to the estuarine mouth to thesea, exhibited almost normal values. The interrelationship of plankton biomass with year,

station and season are discussed.0601–049. Dey Kallol, Mohapatra SC, Misra Bidyabati (Dept Chem, Govt (Auto) Coll,Rourkela 769004). Assessment of water quality parameters of the river Brahmani atRourkela. J Indl Polln Contl, 21(2) (2005), 265-270 [5 Ref].Various physio-chemical parameters were assessed on the samples drawn from the river,“Koel”, “Shankha” and “Brahmani” selecting strategic points. It was observed thatdilution during rainy season decreases the metal concentration level to a considerableextent. However the enrichment of these metals by bio-magnification and bioaccumulationin edible components produced in water is accepted to produce aremarkable effect on the water of the river “Brahamani” which is of deep public concern.160601–050. Doke Jayant, Kudlu Priyadarshini, Vijapurkar Suman, Adhyapak Upendra,Kalyan Raman V (Dept Environ Sci, Univ Pune, Pune 411007). Application of rootzone process for remediation of 2-chlorophenol. Nature Env Polln Techno, 4(3)(2005), 327-331 [11 Ref].The root-zone technology is effective for removal of 2-chlorophenol from wastewater. Itis simple, robust process able to withstand wide variation of operating conditions. Theplant like Phragmites australis was used in root-zone technology, which gives an averageof 0.5g O2/m2/day (max 3g/m2/day). It removes 2-chlorophenol up to 65%, 60%, 57%and 42% from 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 ppm concentrations respectively.0601–051. Dutta RK, Saikia G, Das B, Bezbaruah, Das HB, Dube SN (Dept Cheml Sci,Tezpur, Univ, Tezpur 784028). Fluoride contamination in groundwater of CentralAssam, India. Asian J Water Env Polln, 3(2) (2006), 93-100 [24 Ref].High fluoride contamination has been observed in the groundwater of areas havingancient alluvial red soil and Precambrian metamorphic rock complex basement in theKapili-Jamuna sub-basin. Moderate fluoride has been found in ground water of some

places in Morigaon and Golaghat district also. Besides fluoride, presence of highconcentrations of SO42-, much above the guideline values, have also bee recorded insome samples.0601–052. Gnana Rani DF, Arunkumar K, Sivakumar SR (Govt Arts Coll, Ariyalur621713). Physio-chemical analysis of waste water from cement units. J Indl PollnContl, 21(2) (2005), 337-340 [9 Ref].Two major cement industries of the Ariyalur and Reddipalayam were selected and thewaste water discharged from these units were collected and subjected to analysis. Thevalues of different parameters were compared with the standard values given by TamilNadu Pollution Control Board. The reasons for variations are analysed and remedialmeasures suggested.0601–053. Guru Prasad B (Environ Engng Lab, Civil Engng Dept, KL Coll Engng,Vaddeswaram 522502). Assessment of water quality in canals of Krishna Delta areaof Andhra Pradesh, Nature Env Polln Techno, 4(4) (2005), 521-523 [2 Ref].Water samples from different locations are collected regularly to check the suitability ofwater for human use. The parameters like temperature, suspended solids, total solids,17electrical conductivity, alkalinity, dissolved oxygen and chlorides are analyzed. For theexperimental data mean, standard deviation, variance, and standard error are calculatedand the results are discussed. This investigation revealed that the canal serves the purposeof human use.0601–054. Harish Babu K, Puttaiah ET, Kumara Vijaya, Thirumala S (Dept Environ Sci,Kuvempu Univ, Shankaraghatla 577451). Status of drinking water quality in Tarikeretaluk with special reference to fluoride concentration. Nature Env Polln Techno, 5(1)(2006), 71-78 [29 Ref].Thirty water samples were collected from public hand pumps of Tarikere taluk, which are

used for drinking purpose only. The fluoride concentration ranges from 0.45 mg/L to 1.98mg/L. The results of the study indicate that ground water quality in the study area ismuch suitable with respect to fluoride as more than 65% of the sample have fluorideabove the permissible limit.0601–055. Indra V, Meiyalagan V (Dept Zoo, Thiruvalluvar Univ, Fort Campus,Vellore). Diversity and distribution of microfungi in polluted and non polluted waterbodies from an industrial areas of river Palar, Vellore-India. Asian J MicrobioBiotechno Environ Sci, 7(4) (2005), 723-725 [14 Ref].Attempt is made to enumerate the diversity and distribution of micro fungi in waterpolluted and non polluted aquatic ecosystems in an industrial area of river Palar. Theresults show that the fungal diversity was higher with 22 species in polluted waterscompared to 12 species from non-polluted sources. The ecological significance of theseobservations is discussed.0601–056. Jadeja BA, Odedra NK, Thaker MR (Dept Bot, MD Sci Coll, Porbandar360575). Studies on ground water quality of industrial area of Dharampur,Porbandar city, Saurashtra, Gujrat, India. Plant Archives, 6(1) (2006), 341-344 [5Ref].The ground water quality was assessed by examining various physico- chemical andbacteriological characteristics. TDS was above the desirable limit prescribed by BIS :14543, 2004. All the samples collected from Dharampur industrial area Porbandar citywere rated as unacceptable for their taste on the basis of total hardness. Results show thatthe ground water of Dharampur Industrial area, Porbandar city is suitable for drinkingpurpose, subject to proper disinfection to ensure health of population.180601–057. Jena PK, Mohanty M (Inst Adv Techno Environ Stud, Bhubaneshwar, Orrisa).Processing of liquid effluents of mineral processing industries. Intl Symposium

Environ Manag Mining Metallurgical Industries, 11-14 Dec, 2005, Bhubaneshwar, 193-212 [20 Ref].In mineral based industry among various environmental issues the water pollution hasposed most disastrous effect and complex challenges for undertaking necessary remedialmeasures. The sources of water pollution in different mineral based industries includingmining, mineral processing, integrated iron and steel plant and nonferrous metalindustries are described. Various liquid effluent treatments techniques both physiochemicaland biological have been described and discussed. The process in each casebeing used commercially, have been outlined.0601–058. Kamath Devidas, Kumara Vijaya, Tirumala BR, Puttaiah ET (Dept EnvironSci, Kuvempu Univ, Shankeraghatta 577451, Dist Shimoga). Phytoplankton forbiomonitoring of organic pollution in two tanks of Shimoga district, Karnataka. JAquatic Bio, 21(1) (2006),. 7-9 [13 Ref].Two tanks situated in Shimoga district were selected for their phytoplankton diversityand the possibility of using it as bio monitors of organic pollution. These algae occurredas regular blooms in all the seasons. Hosalli tank supports a wide diversity ofphytoplankton and less polluted. The use of algae for bio monitoring of organic pollutionindicates that Purle tank, which regularly receives sewage is heavily polluted and Hosallitank is mesotrophic in nature of mild anthropogenic activities.0601–059. Kavitha Kirubavathy A, Binukumari S, Mariamma Ninan, RajammalThirumalnesan (Dept Zoo, Chikanna Govt Arts Coll, Tirupur 641602). Assessment ofwater quality of Orathupalayam reservoir, Erode district, Tamil Nadu. J EcophysioOccupl Hlth, 5(1&2) (2005), 53-54 [5 Ref].The water quality of Orathupalayam reservoir has been studied to ascertain the level ofmunicipal waste contamination in it and further it’s suitability for the irrigation. The

physio-chemical end points studies have shown a heavy contamination of severalundesired compounds and make it unsuitable for irrigation purpose.0601–060. Kelkar PS, Nanoti MV (Natl Environ Engng Res Inst, Nagpur 440020)Impact assessment of Ganga Action Plan on river quality at Varanasi, J IndianWater Work Assoc, 37(3) (2005), 225-234.Extensive water quality assessment was undertaken in pre- and post-implementationperiod at 14.5 km stretch of the river at Varanasi. Water quality was assessed near the19bathing ghats and in the midstream. Water quality indicator showed substantialimprovement in the river. The organic loading was reduced as represented by BOD andCOD values.0601–061. Kiran BR, Shastri Shekhar TR, Puttaiah ET, Shivaraj Y (Dept Std ResEnviron Sci, Kuvempu Univ, Shankaraghatta 577451). Trace metal levels in the organsof finfish Oreochromis mossambicus (Peter) and relevant water of Jannapura Lake,India. J Environ Sci Engng, 48(1) (2006), 15-20 [31 Ref].Trace metal levels in the body organs of finfish, Oreochromis mossambicus (Peter) andrelevant water was studied in Jannapura lake, located five kilometers from Bhadravathitown, Karnataka, India. Lead, copper and cadmium accumulation was higher in musclesthan in gills while, zinc, nickel and cobalt accumulation was maximum in gills followedby muscles. The metals presents in the highest concentration were in the order ofPb>Cu>Zn>Cd>Ni>Co in the water samples.0601–062. Kulshrestha H, Sharma S* (*Dept Microbio, Division of Life Sci, SBS (PG)Inst Biomedical Sci Res, Balawala, Dehradun 248161). Impact of mass bathing duringArdh Kumbh on water quality status of river Ganga. J Environ Bio, 27 (2supplement) (2006), 437-440 [20 Ref].Study highlighted that mass bathing during Ardhkumbh caused the changes in the river

water quality and indicated that water is not fit for either drinking or bathing purposes.The presence of faecal coliforms in water also hints at the potential presence ofpathogenic microorganisms, which might cause water born diseases. Although the waterwas found to be safe with respect to dissolved oxygen content, the values of BOD andCOD exceeded the maximum permissible limit during bathing.0601–063. Lingeswara Rao SV, Sambasiva Rao T, Sreenivasulu S (Dept Zoo, SriVenkateshwara Univ, Tirupati 517502). Analysis of groundwater of Nellore coast bycorrelation technique. Nature Env Polln Techno, 4(4) (2005), 545-549 [12 Ref].Groundwater samples, covering all geological formations, were collected from 100drinking water sources all along the Nellore coast and analysed for major physical andchemical parameters. Correlation coefficients among different chemical constituents weredetermined. The analysis of correlation coefficients indicates that the quality of groundwater in the study area is saline and consist of high sodium chloride, magnesiumbicarbonate and sodium sulphate.200601–064. Mala R, Sarvana Babu S (PG Dept Biochem, VV Vanniaperumal CollWomen, Virudhnagar 626001). Production and partial purification of peroxidasefrom water hyacinth plants induced by textile dyeing effluent. J Indl Polln Contl,21(2) (2005), 321-326 [21 Ref].Initially, the water hyacinth plants were gradually acclimatized to textile dyeing effluentfrom 5% to 50%. The production of enzyme was greatly induced by the strength of theeffluent. The results indicated that, acclimatized water hyacinth roots could be a simpleand easily available source for cost effective industrial production of peroxidase.0601-065. Manjappa S, Puttaioh ET (Dept Chem, Univ BDT Coll Engng, Davangere577004). Evaluation of trace metals in the sediments of river Bhadra near

Bhadravathi town, Karnataka, India. J Indl Polln Contl, 21(2) (2005), 271-276 [15ref.]Attempt has been made to evaluate trace metals in the Bhadra river bed sediments fromfour identified stations. The results of the analysis showed that trace metals in the riverbed sediments are well within the Shale standards. Trace metals in the order of theirrelative dominal were in the sequence Fe> Al>Mn>Zn>Pb>Cr>Cu>Ni>Cd>Hg.0601-066. Meenakshi, Maheswari RC (Cent Rural Dev Techno, Indian Inst Techno,Delhi). Arsenic removal from water: a review. Asian J Water Env Polln, 3(1) (2006),133-139 [49 Ref].Article overviews the possible arsenic removal options for safe drinking water supply inthe arsenic affected areas. All these options were tested in the laboratory and effect ofvarious parameters was studied. Adsorption of arsenic on iron salts such as GranularFerric Hydroxide (GFH) and silica ferric complex adsorbent (Sfca) was found to be mosteffective option for arsenic removal.0601-067. Misra PC, Behera PC, Patel RK (PG Dept Chem, Natl Inst Techno, Rourkela08). Contamination of water due to major industries and open refuse dumping inthe steel city of Orissa – a case study. J Environ Sci Techno, 47(2) (2005) 141-154 [18ref].Attempt has been made to evaluate the effect of industrial effluents on the ground andsurface water due to Integrated Rourkela Steel Plant and other major industries. From theanalytical data of physico-chemical parameters, it is indicated that the river water iscontaminated mainly due to the industrial and municipal effluents and the ground water21of some of the analyzed areas is contaminated due to municipal and industrial solid wastedumping.0601-068. Mitra Abhijit, Das Anumita, Chakarborty Rajiv, Banerjee Kakoli, Banerjee

Subash, Bhattacharya DP (Dept Marine Sci, Univ Calcutta, 35, BC Rd, Kolkata 700019).Enteromorpha intestinalis – an indicator of heavy metal pollution in coastalenvironment. Ultra Sci, 17(2) (2005), 177-184 [14 Ref].Seqasonal concentration of Zn, Cu and Pb were determined in three important estuarinemacroalgae inhabiting three different station of the Sagar land. Metals in the algal tissueaccumulated in the order Zn>Cu>Pb. Highest concentrations of these heavy metals werefound in the surface water in the month of monsoon, the period characterized by lowestsalinity and pH of the ambient aquatic phase. A unique compartmentation was observedbetween sediment and surface water with respect to selected heavy metals.0601-069. Mohan S, Ramesh ST (Dept Civil Engng, Environ Water Resources EngngDiv, Indian Inst Techno Madras, Chennai 600036). Treatability studies and evaluationof biokinetic parameters for Chennai Municipal wastewater using activated sludgeprocess. Nature Env Polln Techno, 4(4) (2005), 627-632 [6 Ref].Batch study for activated sludge process was carried out with the wastewater collectedfrom municipal sewage pumping station, Velachery, Chennai. Experiments wereconducted with ‘bio-logical solids retention time’ (BSRT) of 2 days, 2.5 days, 5 days and10 days using nutrient broth and dextrose spiked water as feed. It was observed that CODof effluents and SVI were decreased as BSRT increased, and the MLSS increased asBSRT increased. The influence of BSRT on activated sludge operation and performancehas also been discussed.0601-070. Namasivayam C, Suresh Kumar MV (Environ Chem Dev, Dept Environ Sci,Bharathiar Univ, Coimbatore 641046). Surfactant modified coir pith, an agriculturalsolid waste as adsorbent for phosphate removal and fertilizer carrier to controlphosphate release. J Env Sci Engng, 47(4) (2005), 256-265 [31 Ref].The surface of coir pith, an agricultural solid waste was modified using a cationic

surfactant, hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (HDTMA) and the modified coir pithwas investigated to assess the capacity for the removal of phosphate from aqueoussolution. Optimum pH for maximum phosphate adsorption was found to be 4.0.Thermodynamic parameters were evaluated and the overall adsorption process wasspontaneous and endothermic.220601-071. Nikhil Kumar (Environ Manag Gr, Centl Mining Res Inst, Barwa Rd,Dhanbad 826001). Biotreatment of polluted water-vis-a-vis-socio- Economicdevelopment in coal mining area. J Indl Polln Contl, 2(2) (2005), 195-199 [5 Ref].Irrespective of the mining methods employed, mining is bound to cause variousenvironmental problems and one of them is water pollution. Besides this, sewage andindustrial effluents water are also present in coal mining areas. Mechanical, chemical andother treatment methods for the sewage, mine and industrial effluents waters are foundcostlier. A bio-treatment option to recycle this polluted water for some useful purposes isdiscussed.0601-072. Panda Unmesh Chandra, Rath Prasanta, Sahu Kali Charan, MajumdarSabyasachi, Sundaray Sanjay K (Wetland Res Cent, Chilika Dev Authority,Bhubaneswar 751001). Environmental quantification of heavy metals in theSubrarnarekha, estuary and near-shore environment, east coast of India. Asian JWater Env Polln, 3(2) (2006), 85-92 [30 Ref].Concentration of heavy metals in the sediments was measured from the river, estuarineand coastal environment off Subrarnarekha River, Bay of Bengal. The degree ofcontamination of the sediments was evaluated through enrichment factor (ER), geoaccumulationindex (Igeo) and pollution load index (PLI). The high ER’s and Igeo valuesfor Cu and Cr were due to the chromite and copper mines, and Cu ore processing plants

situated on the upstream catchments of the river.0601-073. Parikh Punita, Rao KS (Dept Biosci, Sardar Patel Univ, Vallabh Vidyanagar –388120). The response of Chara and Oscillatoria to remove Ni (II) ions fromindustrial waste water. J Indl Polln Contl, 21(2) (2005), 293-297 [10 Ref].A blue green algae Oscillatoria sp. and green algae Chara sp. have been used to removeNi (II) ions from effluent having high concentration of Ni and the effect of this metal ondry matter content of the algae. Oscillatoria, being blue green algae can efficientlyremove/uptake Ni (II) ions than Chara from the industrial waste water. The metalconcentration in the effluent and the dry matter content of both the algae are negativelycorrelated.0601-074. Patel DK, Kanungo VK (Dept Bot, Govt Coll Sci, Raipur 492010).Phytoremediation of domestic wastewaters by using a free floating aquatic plantPistia stratiotes L. Nature Env Polln Techno, 5(1) (2006). 101-106[8 Ref].23A culture of aquatic plant Pistia stratiotes was grown in the domestic wastewater for astipulated interval of seven days for phytoremediation. The results of analysis for pH anddissolved oxygen have shown an increase in values while other parameters exhibitedsignificant decrease throughout the year. The increase in biomass of Pistia stratiotes andfinding of physico-chemical analysis have proved that Pistia stratiotes is a suitableaquatic plant for Phytoremediation of domestic wastewater.0601-075. Patil Dilip B, Kshirsagar A, Ganorkar Ajay P (Dept Chem, Inst Sci, Nagpur440001). Estimation of surfactants at ppm level from synthetically polluted water. JIndl Polln Contl, 21(2) (2005), 259-264 [10 Ref].The level of surfactant in synthetically polluted water followed the order arial>Surfexcel>Rin Shakti> Nirma. Study revealed that minimum amount of surfactant that could

be estimated in synthetically polluted water of commercially available detergent likeArial, Surf excel, Rin Shakti and Nirma were 39.0, 50.6, 58.1 and 72.2 ppm respectively.0601-076. Pawar Anusha C, Nair Jithender Kumar, Jadhav Naresh, Vasundhara Devi V,Pawar Smita C (Dept Zoo, Univ Coll Women, Osmania Univ, Koti, Hyderabad 500195).Physico-chemical study of ground work samples from Nacharam Industrial area,Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India. J Aquatic Bio, 21(1) (2006), 118-120 [11 Ref].The bore well and dug well water samples from a highly polluted industrial area –Nacharam were collected and analysed for physico-chemical parameters by adopting thestandard methods for examination for water and waste water. The analyzed samplesobtained a high values, compared with drinking water standards.0601-077. Poonkothai M, Parvatham R (Dept Biochem Biotechno, AvinashilingamDeemed Univ, Coimbatore 641043). Bio-physico and chemical assessment ofautomobile wastewater. J Indl Polln Contl, 21(2)(2005), 377-380 [11 Ref].Physico-chemical and microbiological studies of automobile wastewater in Nammakkal,Tamil Nadu, India indicated that the values for physico-chemical parameters were on thehigher side of permissible limits of BIS. Microbiological studies revealed the presence ofbacteria at high concentration and these organisms serves as indicators for pollutants.0601-078. Prabhakara Rao K, Radha Krishnaiah K (Dept Zoo, Sri Krishnadevaraya Univ,Anantapur 515003). Pesticidal impact on protein metabolism of the freshwater fishCyprinus carpio (Lin.). Nature Env Polln Techno, 5(3) (2006), 367-374 [35 Ref].24The total protein content increased in the gills and decreased in the muscle of thefreshwater fish Cyprinus carpio at days 1 and 2 on exposure to lethal concentration and atdays 1 and 10 on exposure to the sublethal concentrations of furadan, endosulfan,

chlorpyrifos and mixture of these three in a 100:10:1 ratio. The results indicate that thechanges in protein levels of the fish are organ-dependant, and also dependant on theconcentration of pesticides.0601-079. Raje GB, Muley DV, Mankar DD (Dept Zoo, Shivaji Univ, Kolhapur 416004).Analysis of heavy metals in ground water from Lote industrial area in Ratnagir,district (Maharastra). J Indls Polln Contl, 21(2) (2005), 381-386 [11 Ref].Heavy metals in natural spring water and dugwell water from Lote Industrial Area andnearby villages have been monthly analysed. The results on trace metals indicatedvarying degrees of contamination in ground water which may cause a serious healthproblems to domestic animals and human beings.0601-080. Ramanaiah S, Sambasivarao T, Niranjan Kumar K ( Dept Geo, SV Univ,Tirupati 517502). A rapid method to assess source of groundwater pollution throughstatistical approach. Nature Env Polln Techno, 4(3) (2005), 409-412 [2 Ref].A method has been suggested to assess the source of groundwater pollution through thestudy of coefficient of variation of the parameteric ratios among the influencingparameters of groundwater samples. The usefulness of this approach has beendemonstrated by applying this technique to about 25 samples collected in the vicinity ofKadapa town in Andhra Pradesh.0601-081. Rokade PB, Ganeshwade RM (Dept Zoo, RB Attal Coll, Georai 431127).Impact of pollution on water quality of Salim Ali Lake at Aurangabad. UttarPradesh J Zoo, 25(2) (2005), 219-220 [12 Ref].Results showed high fluctuations in the physico-chemical parameters indicating theintensity of pollution. The pH ranged from minimum of 6.6 to maximum of 8.4, chloridesfrom 132.5 to 820.4mg/l, hardness ranged from 74 to 281 mg/l, CO2

from 2.1 to 5.09,BOD from 4.437 to 112.432 mg/l, sulphates 0.192 to 5.12 mg/l, nitrates 0.5 to 1.012.

0601-082. Sahu Anita, Vaishnav MM* (*Dept Chem, GBVPG Coll, Hardibazar, Korba(C.G.). Study of fluoride in groundwater around the BALCO Korba area (India). JEnviron Sci Engng , 48(1) (2006), 65-68 [13 Ref].25Study was undertaken for the determination of fluoride ions in drinking water at theBALCO, Kobra region by the ion selective electrode method. The fluoride concentrationvalues varied from 1.07 ppm to 3.10 ppm. It was found that fluoride was present withinthe permissible limit (1.5 ppm) in most of the villages studied but the fluoride level wasunacceptable in drinking water samples taken from some villages of BALCO, Kobraarea.0601-083. Samanta S, Mitra K, Chandra K, Saha K, Bandopadhyay S, Ghosh A (CentlInland Fisheries Res Inst, Barrackpore, Kolkata 700120) Heavy metals in water of therivers Hooghly and Haldi at Haldia and their impact on fish. J Environ Bio, 26(3)(2005), 517-523 [17 Ref].Paper deals with the measurement of five heavy metals viz., Cd, Cu, Mn, Pb and Zn inwater of the rivers Hooghly and Haldi at Haldia. Most of the metals exhibited their leastconcentration at the sampling site above the Haldia industrial area of river Hoogly.Comparison of the data with the Criterion Continuous Concentration (CCC) of USArevealed that Cd, Cu and Pb were the pollutants present at alarming level to disturb theaquatic life process in the zone. The other two metals viz., Mn and Zn were probably lessharmful to the aquatic ecosystem.0601-084. Sawane AP, Puranik PG, Bhate AM (Dept Zoo, Anand Niketan Coll, Warora442907, Dist Chandrapur). Impact of industrial pollution on river Irai, districtChandrapur, with reference to fluctuation in CO2 and pH. J Aquatic Bio, 21(1)(2006), 105-110 [10 Ref].The minimum pH value of 6.3 mg/l was found during winter season and maximum of

8.93 mg/l in summer. The pH shows general decline from upstream to downstream. CO2

was found to maximum in summer reaching up to 55.44 mg/l and reduced to a minimumof 2.28 mg/l during rainy season. From the data collected it can be concluded that theinverse relationship, which is known to exist between pH and CO2 , is not existing in thepresent investigation.0601-085. Saxena Pratibha, Sharma Subhashini, Sharma Shweta, Suryavathi V, GroverRuby, Soni Pratima, Kumar Suresh, Sharma KP (Dept Zoo, Univ Rajasthan, Jaipur 302004). Effect of acute and chromic toxicity of four commercial detergents on thefreshwater fish Gambusia affinis Bairds Gerard. J Environ Sci Engng, 47(2) (2005),119-124 [25 Ref].26The toxic effect of four commercial detergents (two washing powders and two cakes) onbehavior, mortality and RBC counts of a freshwater fish Gambusia affinis are reported.During acute toxicity studies (96h), surface movements of fish increased markedly for24h, only at higher concentrations(>10ppm) of all the four detergents. During acutetoxicity studies, cakes (LC50 = 6.69-19.98ppm) were found more toxic than powders(LC50 = 18.34-20.72 ppm).0601-086. Shailaja K, Johnson Mary Esther C (Limno Lab, Dept Bot, Osmania Univ CollWomen, Koti, Hyderabad 500195). Heavy metals in the ground waters of same areasof Hyderabad. Nature Env Polln Techno, 5(3) (2006), 447-449 [12 Ref].The ground water quality of Hyderabad has been examined with reference to heavymetals contamination. Twentyfour samples were collected during pre and post monsoonseasons and analysed for various heavy metals. The heavy metals in ground waters weremostly below the prescribed maximum permissible limits in all the samples. Theconcentration of zinc, lead and chromium were found well within the permissible limits

in all the samples of Hyderabad district.0601-087. Sharma Madhvi, Ranga MM, Goswami NK (Dept Zoo, Govt Coll, AjmerRajasthan). Study of groundwater quality of the marble industrial area ofKishangarh (Ajmer), Rajshthan. Nature Env Polln Techno, 4(3) (2005), 419-420 [5Ref].Ground water quality of industrial area of Kishangarh was studied for various physicochemicalparameters seasonally without and after addition of marble slurry in differentproportions. From the study it is clear that these parameters increase with the addition ofmarble slurry leading to deterioration of the overall quality of the groundwater.0601-088. Shivram Hari Singh, Kumar Dinesh, Singh RV (Dept Chem, Univ Rajasthan,Jaipur 300204). Improvement of water quality through biological denitrification. JEnviron Sci Engng, 48(1) (2006), 57-60 [10 Ref].Results show that the value of pH and alkalinity was increased due to generation ofalkalinity during biological denitrificaion process. The obtained value of the DO in thetreated water was found lower than the supplied water, and the COD of the treated waterwas nil. The biological reduction of nitrate-nitrogen (from 50.79 mg/L to 0.57 mg/L) wasfound to be lower than the tolerance limit prescribed by WHO without changing thewater quality.270601-089. Singh Rajesh, Yadav Archan (Dept Zoo, Univ Allahabad, Allahabad 211002).Impact of carpet dyeing units wastewater on total chlorophyl contents and biomassof certain aquatic macrophytes. Indian J Environ Sci, 9(2) (2005), 137-139 [9 Ref].In comparison to controls, total chlorophyll contents (30-50%) and biomass (1-10%) ofTypha latifolia, Hydrilla verticillata and Lemna minor decreased when grown in centpercent carpet dyeing industry wastewater for 7,14 and 21 days. Percentage reduction in

both biomass and chlorophyll content was minimum in Hydrilla and maximum in Typha.0601-090. Singh V, Chandel CPS (Dept Chem, Univ Rajashtan, Jaipur 302004). Thepotability of groundwater in terms of Water Quality Index (WQ1) of Jaipur city.Cheml Environ Res, 13(3&4) (2004), 307-314 [20 Ref].Ground water samples from various hand pumps of eight adjacent localities of variousindustrial areas in Jaipur city were analyzed with the help of standard methods of APHA.The values obtained were compared with standards of ISI, ICMR and WHO. It wasobserved that the pH, EC, Ca2+, Na+

, K+, Mg2+, SO4

2, CO3

2, HCO3-,Cl-, DO and BOD valuesare within permissible limits of ISI, ICMR and WHO but NO3-,TDS, TH, COD and WQIvalues show poor water quality in most of the studied groundwater samples taken.0601-091. Singhal V, Kumar A, Rai JPN (Ecotechno Lab, Dept Environ Sci, GB PantUniv Agricl Techno, Pantnagar 263145). Bioremediation of pulp and paper milleffluent with Phanerochaete chrysosporium. J Environ Res, 26(3) (2005), 525-529 [16Ref].Study reports on the treatment of pulp and paper mill effluent by Phanerochaetechrysosporium and the same has been compared at two different pH 5.5 and 8.5. At boththe pH, colour, COD, lignin content and total phenols of the effluent significantlydeclined after bioremediation. However, greater decolourisation and reduction in COD,lignin content and total phenols were observed at pH 5.5.0601-092. Sonaware DS, Shrivastava VS (Cent PG Res Chem, GTP Coll, Nandurbar425412). Hazardous metals in marine sediments and water. Cheml Environ Res,13(3&4) (2004), 221-226 [17 Ref].The marine sediments and water samples were collected from Girgaon Chaupati, Juhu

Chaupati, Mumbai and Dumas, Surat respectively. The concentration of hazardous metalslike Cu, Zn, Pb, Ni, As, Hg, Fe, Cr, Mn and Co were determined by ICP-AES. Theconcentration of these metals in marine sediments and water samples were found to behigher as compared to respective ISI and WHO standards.280601-093. Sudha PN, Backyavthy D, Manley (Dept Chem, DKM Coll, Vellore 632001).Levels of trace metals in industrially polluted soils of Ranipet industrial town,Vellore district, Tamil Nadu. Nature Env Polln Techno, 5(3) (2006), 421 – 424 [13Ref].Villages located near this industrial area whose main occupation is agriculture areadversely affected due to these industries. Investigation has been conducted at fourdifferent sites to estimate the levels of trace metals in the soil. The levels of some metalswere found to be exorbitantly high which need immediate attention.0601-094. Sunil Kumar S, Lokesh SV, Puttaiah ET, Sherigara BS, Harish Babu K (DeptStud Res Environ Sci, Kuvempu Univ, Jhane, Sahyadri, Shankaraghatta 577451).Analysis of trace metals in river Tung of Karnataka by differential pulse anodicstripping voltametry (DPASV). Nature Env Polln Techno, 5(3) (2006), 425-428 [12Ref].Water samples from river Tunga were collected and analyzed for the presence of tracemetals by Differential Pulse Anodic Stripping Voltametric (DPASV) method. The studyreveals that all the trace metals are well within the maximum permissible limits, however,check should be kept on the anthropogenic inputs to restore the quality of this valuablenatural resource.0601-095. Sunil Kumar S, Puttaiah ET*, Manjappa S, Prakash Naik S, Kumar Vijay(Dept Environ Sci, Kuvempu Univ, Shankaraghatta, Karnataka 577451). Water qualityassessment of river Tunga, Karnataka. Env Eco, 24(5) (1) (2006), 23-26 [7 Ref].

Study revealed that DO levels were observed to be 100% of saturation concentration. Theconcentrations of nitrite, nitrate phosphate, sodium and potassium were considerably lowwhen compared with that of groundwater in the region. However, values of all theparameters are observed within the range of GIS specification. Quality assessment ofTunga river water shows that surface water is suitable for domestic use although checkshould be kept on anthropogenic and diffuse inputs.0601-096. Sunita S, Bakre VP, Bakre PP (Environ Bio Lab, Dept Zoo, Rajasthan Univ,Jaipur 302004). Effects of textile industry sludge on key organ, hepato-pancreas ofGambusia Offinis. J Ecophysio Occupl Hlth, 5(3&4) (2005), 223-227 [12 Ref].The toxic effluent generated at different textile and printing units after treatment, thesludge generated is allowed to dry in drying beds and dumped far from the plant would29leach and make their way to local Bandi river through sub-soil movement. The ill effectson fish Gambusia affinis was studied by exposing it to 1/1000, 1/500 and 1/100 leachateconcentrations. Hepato-pancreas was studied for histopathological damage. The organshowed pathological disintegration that was dose and time dependent.0601-097. Tiwari Pushpendra, Saxena Prabha N ( Toxico Lab, Dept Zoo, Sch Life Sci,Dr. BR Ambedkar Univ, Agra). Response of biotransformating organs in Labeo rohitato chromium and nickel in Yamuna water at Agra. J Ecophysio Occpl Hlth, 5(1&2)(2005), 37-40 [28 Ref].The carp, Labeo rohita was sampled and analyzed for their qualitative and quantitativepresence of heavy metals at the biotransformation site, the liver and kidney. The fisheswere sacrificed on 1st, 15th and 30th of the month and the heavy metals revealed theirpresence in the liver and kidney. Chromium was found to be more than nickel. Both theheavy metals revealed their higher concentration in liver than in kidneys. The studies

advocate the use of treated Yamuna water for drinking and domestic purposes.0601-098. Tiwari RK, Rajak GP, Mondal MR (Env Manag Gr, Centl Mining Res Inst,Barwa Rd, Dhanbad 826001). Water quality assessment of Ganga river in Biharregion, India. J Environ Sci Engng, 47(4) (2005), 326-355 [16 Ref].The physicochemical analysis of Ganga river shows that the water has high TDS, TSS,BOD, and COD. The coliform bacteria were found to be alarmingly high in the river.Most of the parameters analyzed were found high near the bank in comparison to thewater in the middle stream of that station. The study revealed that due to discharge ofuntreated sewage into the Ganga, the water quality of Ganga has been severelydeteriorated and the potable nature of water is being lost.0601-099. Zargar S, Ghosh TK (Environ Bio techno Div, Natl Environ Engng Res Inst,Nagpur 440020). Influence of cooling water discharges from Kaiga nuclear powerplant on select indices applied to plankton population of Kadra reservoir. J EnvironBio, 27(2) (2006), 191-198 [40 Ref].During the study period 49 and 22 genera of phytoplankton and zooplankton respectivelywere recorded at surface waters, Diversity indices indicated oligotrophic nature of thelake. Dissimilarity was more amongst the planktons in between intake and dischargepoint. Studies revealed that there was negative impact of evaluated temperature onplankton up to 500 m from discharge point.

Pollution Prevention

Water pollution is a complex issue - from the source of poluution to its impacts, both short-term and long-term on human and other species that depend on water. Point and non-point sources of pollution have a profound impact on the degree of pollution, and

many times the actual causes are hidden behind more 'visible' causes. Understanding these causes-behind-causes is critical in developing appropriate responses to reduce pollution. Broad-based awareness of the sources and impacts of pollution - involving a number of stakeholders on the water continuum - is also important to effect lasting solutions.

Resources specific to river pollution are aslo included - River pollution is a result of a complex combination of processes that reduce overall river water quality. Acid rain, industrial pollution, agricultural pollution contribute to river pollution, but so do everyday activities that drain untreated pollutants and leachate into rivers and streams. Transportation has a role to play too - where carbon and one-drop-at-a-time 'oil spills' can also cause pollution through storm run-off. A holistic and integrative understanding of the cause-effect cycles of river pollution is an effective starting point to improve river water quality.

UNEP-GPA: ClearingHouse - Pollutant Nodes (Web links)This page provides an up-to-date list of links to the various nodes participating in the GPA Clearing-House Mechanism.http://www.gpa.unep.org/clrhouse/chnodes.htm#1 andhttp://www.gpa.unep.org/links/default.htm#Pollutant

UNEP-GPA: Pollution from the land: the threat to our seas (Brochure)The major threats to the health, productivity and biodiversity of the world’s oceans result from human activities on land in coastal areas and further inland. Some 80 per cent of the pollution in the oceans originates from land-based activities.http://www.gpa.unep.org/documents/other/brochure/GPA_english.pdf

UNESCO-WAAP: Glossary on Pollution (Online resource)This glossary is a contribution to the International Hydrological Programme of UNESCO by the French National Hydrology Committee. Available in 11 languages.http://www.cig.ensmp.fr/~hubert/glu/HINDENPL.HTM

UNEP-IETC: Database of Water Pollution Control Technology in JAPAN (Database)The source of this database is "Water Pollution Control Technology in JAPAN", which was published by the Committee for Studying Transter of Environmental Technology in February 1997. This volume describes the various technological measures to prevent and control water pollution which are available in Japan.http://nett21.gec.jp/CTT_DATA/index_water.html

SANICON: An Overview of Land Based Sources of Marine Pollution (Publication)The major sources of coastal and marine pollution originating from the land vary from country to country. The nature and intensity of development activities, the size of the human population, the state and type of industry and agriculture are but a few of the factorscontributing to each country's unique pollution problems. Pollution is discharged either directly into to the sea, or enters the coastal waters through rivers and by

atmospheric deposition.http://www.sanicon.net/titles/title.php3?titleno=65

UEMRI: Kita-Kyushu - International Cooperation to solve Environmental Problems (Document)In the high economic growth period of 1960s, the city of Kita-Kyushu attained notoriety as a "dead" city due to the very high degree of air and sea pollution caused by its petrochemical and other heavy industries. Its effect on human and other natural species was predictable - for example, many fish species that were found in the adjacent Dokaiwan Bay disappeared. http://www.gdrc.org/uem/japan/kitakyushu.html

IWA: Diffuse Pollution (Specialist group)This group covers atmospheric deposition of pollutants including acid rainfall; qualitative impact of atmospheric deposition on land (soil and groundwater) and surface water resources; pollutant loads and impact of non-urban land use and land use conversion activities (deforestation, land drainage, large scale construction); and related issues and topics.http://www.iawq.org.uk/template.cfm?name=sg27

UNEP-IETC: Water Quality - The Impact of Eutrophication (Publication)The booklet provides an overview of the problem of the enrichment of surface freshwater bodies due to organic compounds originating from urban and agricultural activities as well as from industrial effluents. Eutrophication is a process in water bodies that once started is difficult to control unless immediate action is taken and it will ultimately reduce oxygen in water killing fish and other organisms, reduce biodiverstisity and cause enormous economic