River pollution

River pollution is becoming a concern over time. More wastes are accumulating in our rivers thus increase in pollution which makes our water unsafe for human consumption. It also creates an imbalance in the ecosystem leading to the death of aquatic plants and animals. The toxic substances released in the water makes survival of these living things difficult. In this article, I will exclusively provide an in-depth explanation of the causes, effects and possible solutions to address river pollution.

Causes of River pollution

The following are possible causes of river pollution

River dams

Dams can be a source of river pollution. This is because the dammed water tends to become brackish, thus losing nutrients easily. The aquatic plant s and animals eventually die. Since water does flow freely, bacteria thrive on the dead plants and animals thus making the water unfit for human consumption. When floods occur, this water gets washed away to our rivers leading to pollution.

Storm water

Runoff from storm water is the leading cause of river pollution. However, where there are potential pollutants when water runoff occurs toxic chemicals from factories can end up in the rivers thus causing pollution.

Construction sites

This is an important indirect cause of river pollution. Surface runoff passing through construction sites carries oil, cement, paints which contain toxic chemicals and heavy metals which becomes hazardous when they find their way to rivers.

Agricultural activities

Potential pollutant of river pollution is soil erosion and excessive use of farm chemicals which might find its way to the water sources. These chemicals pose health risks to animals and humans who are depending on the river for domestic use and drinking.

Illegal dumping of waste

Dumping of garbage near the river bodies causes pollution. Most garbage are found along the river banks which eventually becomes potential pollutants.

Animal waste

When animal waste are deposited to rivers, the growth of bacteria increases significantly thus leading to contamination. If you happen to swim in water infected by animal parasites you might contract infections.

Effects of River pollution

The following are the effects of river pollution;

• Eutrophication: Chemicals deposited in the river encourage the growth of algae. Hence, bacteria feed on algae leading to a decrease in oxygen concentration thus resulting in the death of aquatic plants and animals.
• Diseases: Drinking contaminated water leads to infections.
• Destruction of ecosystems: Water pollution can lead to the collapse of the entire ecosystem if left unaddressed.
• Farming: If contaminated water is used to water the crops toxins will be taken in by the plants posing a health risk to the consumers.

Solutions to water pollution

The following solutions can reduce river pollution:

• Sewage treatment: Sewage should be treated before channeling it to the rivers to prevent contamination.
• Use of environmentally friendly products: Soluble and harmless products should be used to avoid river pollution via non-biodegradable household waste.
• Minimize surface runoffs. This prevents toxic substances from reaching our rivers.
• Avoid excessive use of farm fertilizers and pesticides. This is because during rainy seasons these substances are carried by surface runoffs into the streams thus causing pollution

Summary

Rivers are continually getting a polluted day in day out. Most of the rivers contain toxic chemicals which are harmful to our health. People should be educated on this so that they can learn to manage waste disposal which unknowingly are accumulating in our rivers.

It is our responsibility to say NO to river pollution. The government; through relevant authorities should address underlying issues that contribute to river pollution.

By IsaacV