Times of India: Noida: Monday, November 03, 2014.
A response to
an RTI filed by NCR-based environmentalists at Ghaziabad's pollution control
board has revealed that apart from a deterioration in quality of Ghaziabad's
ground water levels, the water in the Lohia Nagar area of Ghaziabad has traces
of hexavalent chromium. It is a chemical which usually reaches ground water as
a result of seepage of industrial wastes, and is a carcinogen.
"Many
places show colour in water. The presence of hexavalent chromium makes it even
more dangerous for people living in the region. There is a need for strong
action to curb ground water pollution in the city," said activist Vikrant
Tongad, who had filed the RTI with Ghaziabad's pollution control board.
"We are
trying to raise awareness among people about the deteriorating ground water
quality in the NCR. There is need for proper pollution control of industrial
wastes in all of Ghaziabad, Noida and Greater Noida," he added.
According to
Tongad, it is not uncommon for residents of Ghaziabad to receive coloured water
in their taps. "When there are traces of chemicals, ground water is
altered in colour. This is extremely hazardous and people need to become
conscious of its hazardous effects," Tongad said.
He said while
only partial reports of ground water pollution in Ghaziabad have be secured, he
is trying to get hold of data for the entire NCR, to prepare a comprehensive
document on the extent of ground water pollution in the belt, and %the
potential threats %to the health of its population and environment.
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