Deterioration of Water Quality
Water quality refers to the purity of water, free from unwanted substances. Unfortunately, its quality is declining due to pollutants like industrial wastes, fertilizers, and other contaminants. As pollution enters rivers and lakes, it affects aquatic ecosystems and human health.
Key contributors to this deterioration include the excessive withdrawal of water for irrigation and the runoff containing chemicals, leading to increased salinity and depletion of groundwater. Regions like Punjab and Haryana are experiencing soil salinity issues, directly impacting agricultural productivity. As population increases, the pressure on water resources grows, exacerbating conflicts over water availability. Effective measures such as pollution prevention, rainwater harvesting, and community involvement in water management are essential for addressing these problems.
Additionally, government initiatives play a critical role in conserving water resources and raising awareness about the importance of maintaining water quality and ecosystem health.