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Microplastics Invade Odisha's Brahmani River Sanctuary
17 Apr
Summary
- Microplastics found in sediments of Brahmani river within Bhitarkanika wildlife sanctuary.
- Particles pose long-term risks to mangroves, fish, and wildlife.
- Toxic heavy metals found on microplastic surfaces, increasing wildlife risks.
Microplastic contamination has been detected in the sediments of the Brahmani river, located within Odisha's Bhitarkanika wildlife sanctuary. This discovery, published on April 14 in Water, Air, and Soil Pollution, highlights pollution concerns in a sensitive natural area.
The study revealed microplastics at all sampling points inside the sanctuary. Scientists caution that even minute quantities can endanger the mangrove ecosystem, fish, and wildlife. Higher concentrations were observed near human-populated zones, with common plastic types like fibers and fragments found.
Researchers noted that the Bhitarkanika sanctuary's fragile environment makes it particularly vulnerable, even if pollution levels are lower than in some other Indian rivers. The microplastics trap toxic heavy metals, including arsenic and lead, escalating risks for various species like crocodiles, turtles, and birds.
This contamination underscores the urgent need for enhanced solid-waste management, stricter controls on riverbank activities, and strengthened buffer zones. Strengthening waste management and river protection measures is crucial to safeguard the sanctuary's rich biodiversity.
