Water pollution is one of the major threats to health in Pakistan. Drinking water is poorly managed and monitored. Pakistan ranks at number 80 among 122 nations regarding drinking water quality. Drinking water sources, both surface and groundwater are contaminated with coliforms, toxic metals and pesticides throughout the country. Various drinking water quality parameters set by WHO are frequently violated. Human activities like improper disposal of municipal and industrial effluents and indiscriminate applications of agrochemicals in agriculture are the main factors contributing to the deterioration of water quality.
In terms of financial loss, Pakistani government spending 112 billion rupees per year on sanitation and hygiene related diseases, but because of increasing population, lack of planning, uneducated people the water pollution is increasing. Water is essential for living things and a gift from nature, but due to advancement and changing life styles, people are not willing to pay for this free resource. Government should take some steps to ensure clean and healthy water.
WASIM GONDAL,
Mandi Bahauddin, March 31.