By Jasreet Kaur07, Nov 2024 11:45 AMjagranjosh.com
Do you know?
White foam on the Yamuna River is a result of heavy pollution. This foam is toxic posing health risks to people and harming the river's ecosystem. Tap to read in detail.
Detergents in Sewage
Chemicals from household detergents enter the river. These chemicals, called surfactants, reduce water's surface tension, making foam more likely to form.
Cleaning Agents
Many detergents and industrial cleaners contain phosphates, which flow into the river through untreated sewage, further contributing to foam formation.
Low Water Flow
During the dry months, the water flow in the river decreases. This reduction in flow causes pollutants to concentrate, increasing foam production, especially near barriers like the Okhla Barrage.
Industrial Waste
Factories near the river discharge untreated wastewater containing toxic chemicals and metals, worsening the pollution that causes the foam.
Turbulence at Barrages
As water flows over structures like barrages, it stirs the pollutants, creating and stabilizing foam patches on the water surface.
Health Risks
The foam contains toxic substances like ammonia, which can cause skin irritation, respiratory issues, and digestive problems for those who come in contact with it.