Concept:
• River pollution refers to the contamination of river water by harmful physical, chemical and biological substances.
• Pollution reduces the quality of water and makes it unsuitable for drinking, irrigation, industrial use and aquatic life.
• Rapid urbanisation, industrialisation, population growth and improper waste disposal have resulted in severe pollution of several rivers in India.
• Untreated domestic sewage, industrial effluents, agricultural chemicals and religious activities are the major causes of river pollution.
• According to the NCERT Geography textbook, the Ganga and the Yamuna are among the most polluted rivers in India.
Step 1: Identify the first highly polluted river.
The Yamuna River is one of the most polluted rivers in India.
Its water becomes highly polluted while passing through the National Capital Territory of Delhi due to the discharge of untreated domestic sewage, industrial waste, toxic chemicals and solid waste.
The stretch between Delhi and Etawah is considered one of the most polluted sections of the river.
Step 2: Identify the second highly polluted river.
The Ganga River is another major river facing severe pollution.
Although it is regarded as one of the holiest rivers in India, large quantities of untreated sewage, industrial effluents, municipal waste and religious offerings are discharged into the river.
Major cities such as Kanpur, Prayagraj and Varanasi contribute significantly to its pollution.
The Government of India has launched programmes like the Namami Gange Programme to restore the water quality of the river.
Step 3: Write the final answer.
Answer:
The two highly polluted rivers of India are:
• Yamuna River
• Ganga River