Recently, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) mandated the Uttar Pradesh government to conduct an extensive assessment of heavy metal contamination, particularly focusing on chromium. This directive aims to evaluate the level of pollution, identify affected populations, and determine necessary remedial actions.
Chromium (Cr) is a trace element that is essential for human health in limited amounts. However, specific forms of chromium, particularly its industrial by-products, pose severe environmental and health risks.
The most dangerous form is hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)], known for its high toxicity and mobility in both land and water ecosystems. It is recognized as a critical pollutant due to its carcinogenic and mutagenic properties.
Health Impacts: Prolonged exposure to chromium can lead to its accumulation in humans and animals, resulting in severe health issues such as skin disorders, respiratory complications, liver and kidney damage, and an increased risk of cancer.
Environmental Impacts: Chromium pollution adversely affects water bodies, soil fertility, and biodiversity. It contaminates groundwater, disrupts soil microbial activity, and threatens natural ecosystems and agricultural productivity.
The National Green Tribunal has instructed the Uttar Pradesh state government to:
The NGT has stressed the urgency of coordinated actions to contain the spread of chromium pollution and safeguard public health and environmental quality.
Q1. What is chromium contamination?
Answer: Chromium contamination refers to the presence of chromium, particularly in its toxic forms, in soil and water due to industrial activities, posing health risks to humans and the environment.
Q2. Why is hexavalent chromium dangerous?
Answer: Hexavalent chromium is highly toxic and known to cause cancer and genetic mutations. It is mobile in ecosystems, making it a significant environmental pollutant.
Q3. What actions has the NGT taken regarding chromium pollution?
Answer: The NGT has directed the Uttar Pradesh government to conduct mapping of contamination, assess impacted populations, and implement remedial measures to address chromium pollution effectively.
Q4. How does chromium affect human health?
Answer: Prolonged exposure to chromium can lead to serious health issues, including skin problems, respiratory issues, organ damage, and increased cancer risk among affected individuals.
Q5. What are the sources of chromium contamination?
Answer: Major sources of chromium contamination include industrial activities like chemical manufacturing, leather tanning, and improper waste disposal, which release chromium into the environment.
Question 1: What is the most toxic form of chromium?
A) Trivalent chromium
B) Hexavalent chromium
C) Elemental chromium
D) Organic chromium
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which organization directed the Uttar Pradesh government regarding chromium mapping?
A) Supreme Court
B) National Green Tribunal
C) Central Pollution Control Board
D) World Health Organization
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: Which health issue is NOT associated with chromium exposure?
A) Skin disorders
B) Respiratory problems
C) Heart disease
D) Kidney damage
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: What is a significant source of chromium contamination?
A) Agricultural runoff
B) Industrial activities
C) Residential waste
D) Natural geological processes
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What did the NGT emphasize regarding chromium pollution?
A) Delayed action
B) Urgent coordinated action
C) Minimal assessment
D) Public awareness only
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: What is one of the NGT's directives to the Uttar Pradesh government?
A) Increase industrial waste production
B) Conduct detailed mapping of chromium contamination
C) Ignore health impacts
D) Limit public health assessments
Correct Answer: B
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