Biological and
non-biological pollutants of Yamuna River
Darshan Malik1, Sunita Singh1,
J Thakur1, RK Singh2, Amarjeet Kaur2, Shashi
Nijhawan1
1Department of
Biochemistry, Shivaji College, University of Delhi
2Guru Gobind
Singh Indraprastha University, Dwarka
Received: 04 May 2016 Revised Accepted: 14 June 2016
ABSTRACT
Yamuna
is one of the most-polluted rivers in the country. The prevailing condition of
the river is of serious concern. About 85 percent of the pollution is caused by
domestic and industrial sources. The level of industrial pollution in the
Yamuna River is nearly 13 times the permissible limit. The quality of the water
is severely affected by the discharge of untreated domestic and industrial
effluents. The water quality is not fit for bathing, underwater life and
domestic supply. It has been reduced to a small stream, draining industrial
effluents, sewage, dirt and other toxic substances. A wide range of
contaminants are continuously introduced into the river and their toxicity is a
problem of increasing significance for ecological, evolutionary and
environmental reasons. Among these contaminants, heavy metals due to their
toxicity, accumulation and non-degradable nature, constitute one of the most
dangerous groups. Heavy metals viz, Lead, Copper, Cadmium, Chromium,
Zinc, Nickel and Arsenic have adverse effects on human metabolism and health.
Bioaccumulation of some heavy metals may cause damage to the central nervous
system, lungs, kidneys, liver, endocrine glands and bones. There is an urgent
need to take strict measures to ensure cleansing of the river and prevent
further contamination.
Key Words: Anthropogenic
activities, Environment, Heavy metals, Plants, Toxic effects