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What is the primary cause of water pollution in urban areas?
Deforestation
Untreated sewage discharge
Use of solar energy
Wind erosion
Untreated sewage discharge
Untreated sewage discharge is the primary cause of water pollution in urban areas because rapid urbanization and high population density generate massive volumes of domestic wastewater that frequently exceed municipal treatment capacity. This results in the direct release of pathogenic bacteria, organic matter, and synthetic pollutants into local rivers and lakes.
Untreated sewage discharge is the primary cause of water pollution in urban areas because rapid urbanization and high population density generate massive volumes of domestic wastewater that frequently exceed municipal treatment capacity. This results in the direct release of pathogenic bacteria, organic matter, and synthetic pollutants into local rivers and lakes.
The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act was enacted by the Parliament of India in 1974 to provide for the prevention and control of water pollution and the maintenance or restoration of the wholesomeness of water.
Domestic and municipal sewage constitutes the largest share of wastewater generated in Indian urban centers.
High Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) caused by organic waste depletion of dissolved oxygen leads to massive fish kills and aquatic ecosystem degradation.
Pathogens present in untreated sewage are major vectors for severe waterborne diseases such as cholera, hepatitis, and typhoid.
Option A (Deforestation) primarily impacts soil stability, sedimentation rates, and regional climate patterns rather than being the immediate primary driver of urban water pollution.
Option C (Use of solar energy) is a green, renewable energy alternative that produces zero harmful emissions or liquid waste.
Option D (Wind erosion) is a geological and atmospheric process causing topsoil loss and air quality degradation rather than urban water contamination.
B is correct тАФ Untreated sewage discharge is the primary cause of urban water pollution due to inadequate municipal wastewater treatment infrastructure.
For RRB and SSC exams, always link environmental pollution topics with key legislative milestones such as the Water Act of 1974 and the Environment Protection Act of 1986.