Question

The objective of Ganga Action Plan (GAP) was to restore the river water quality. It meant that there should be dissolved oxygen (DO) not less than 5 mg/litre, and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) not more than 3 mg / litre and pH value of 6.5 to 8.5. The river is more polluted now, then it was when the project was launched two decades ago. The availability of the natural water in the river has reduced drastically. In addition, sewage is being discharged into the Ganga directly. 

(i) The quality of water has changed during the last 25 years. Give a reason behind the statement.

(ii) Enlist the factors responsible for pollution of river Ganga. 

(iii) Group of student took an initiative to make people aware to 'Save Water'. Enumerate their suggestions.

Answer 1

(i) Industries cause pollution by loading chemical effluents and makes the water toxic, killing aquatic organisms, and is harmful for people. 

(ii) (a) Drainage of household sewage into rivers. 

(b) Washing clothes and flowing pesticides into water. 

(iii) (a) They organise a camp to tell people about water conservation. 

(b) They tell people about rainwater harvesting.