Question.
Describe how urbanization creates air and water pollution in India.
Answer.
Urbanization in India has led to the rapid growth of cities, which often outpace infrastructure development. This uncontrolled expansion results in significant air and water pollution.
Air Pollution due to Urbanization:
Vehicular Emissions:
Increased private vehicles → more CO₂, NOx, and particulate matter.
Major contributor to poor urban air quality (e.g., Delhi, Mumbai).
Industrial Discharges:
Factories in/near urban areas emit SO₂, NO₂, and VOCs.
Often located without proper environmental clearance.
Construction Activities:
Dust and debris from construction sites increase PM2.5 and PM10 levels.
Waste Burning:
Poor waste management leads to open burning of garbage → toxic fumes.
Energy Demand:
Use of diesel generators and coal-based power increases emission loads.
Water Pollution due to Urbanization:
Sewage Disposal:
Untreated or poorly treated sewage is discharged into rivers and lakes.
Example: Yamuna River receives large volumes of urban waste.
Industrial Effluents:
Chemicals and heavy metals from industries pollute urban water bodies.
Solid Waste Dumping:
Unregulated dumping of plastics and garbage clogs drains and pollutes groundwater.
Encroachment of Water Bodies:
Urban expansion leads to shrinking wetlands, lakes, and natural filtration zones.
Stormwater Runoff:
Roads and pavements carry oil, grease, and pollutants into rivers during rain.
Conclusion:
Urbanization, without adequate planning and environmental safeguards, contributes significantly to air and water pollution in Indian cities.
Sustainable urban planning, investment in public transport, sewage treatment, and green infrastructure are essential to mitigate these effects.
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