POLLUTION IN RAJASTHAN FROM CRISIS TO CONTROL

Raj is committed to protecting environment from 6 health hazards and CM Bhajan Lal Sharma is proactively adopting sustainable solutions to balance growth with responsibility

- P Srinivasan

With the development taking place in Rajasthan, pollution is posing a serious threat to the people and environment. Rajasthan being a water scarce city, conserving water and protecting it from pollution is major challenge. Along with water, other pollutions such as air, polythene and others are also increasing and the state government led by chief minister Bhajan Lal is leaving no stone unturned to conserve the environment and curb the pollution.

WATER POLLUTION

Water, often called the universal solvent, has the capacity to dissolve a wide range of substances, making it particularly vulnerable to contamination. Water pollution can be broadly classified into two categories: chemical and biological. In Rajasthan, industrial waste discharged into water bodies and on land is a major source of pollution. Experts believe that with the right technology, all polluted water can be treated and made potable.

Among the major contributors to water pollution in Rajasthan are the textile industries, particularly those based in Pali, Jodhpur, Balotra, Sanganer (Jaipur), and Bhilwara. These industries are water-intensive and generate substantial effluents. To mitigate this, Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs) have been installed in these areas, and treated water is reused within the industry.

Similarly, domestic sewage is treated through Sewerage Treatment Plants (STPs), and the treated water is used for irrigation and landscaping. Experts also suggest that this water can be used in construction activities, but due to the easy availability of fresh water, builders often do not opt for it.