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Environmental Risks of Microplastics on the Spatial and Temporal Gradient in a River Originating from the Western Himalayas
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This study evaluated microplastic pollution in Pakistan's Chenab River originating from the Western Himalayas, assessing spatial and temporal distribution patterns and environmental risks of microplastics across the river system.
The presence of microplastics in different environmental matrices has raised many concerns about potential effects of microplastics on humans and freshwater ecosystems. In Pakistan, rivers potentially receive microplastics from anthropogenic activities in their catchments. However, research studies regarding microplastics' presence, distribution, and risks are scarce in Pakistan. To bridge the gap, the present study was conducted to evaluate microplastic pollution in the Chenab River. Surface water samples were collected from selected sites on the Chenab River using a manta trawl in the low-flow season during postmonsoon (October) 2019 and 2020 and in the high-flow season during monsoon (July) 2020 and 2021. Samples were digested, followed by density separation and filtration. Identification and polymer characterization of microplastics were completed using stereomicroscopy and attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, respectively. Microplastics were found in all samples with significant spatiotemporal variation in microplastic concentration, with an average of 45.98 ± 10.45 microplastics/m3 in the low-flow season and 34.66 ± 16.15 microplastics/m3 in the high-flow season. Among microplastic shapes, fibers were the most dominant shape, whereas polyethylene terephthalate (38.2%) and polypropylene (19%) were the most abundant polymers. Polymer risk index analysis and pollution load index demonstrated that most of the sites ranked as safe. The potential ecological risks from single polymers and combined polymers showed minor risks posed by microplastics. The present study is the first step to focus on microplastic pollution in the Chenab River; it will help river managers to mitigate the microplastic pollution without compromising the ecological integrity of the river. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:727-739. © 2023 SETAC.
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Microplastics Monitoring in Environmental Matrices of an Alpine River originating from Hindu Kush Mountain Range
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Scientists found microplastics in an alpine river originating from the Hindu Kush mountain range in Pakistan, demonstrating that plastic pollution reaches remote high-altitude environments. Glaciers, rainfall, and downstream human activity all appeared to contribute microplastics to the river system.
Spatial Distribution, Characterization and Ecological Risk Assessment of Microplastic Pollution in Different Environmental Matrices of River Ravi, Pakistan
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Sampling across five sites along Pakistan's Ravi River found microplastics in water, air, and sediment at all locations, with textile-derived fibers (1–3 mm) dominating and highest concentrations near urban centers; ecological risk indices indicated moderate-to-high hazard. The Ravi River is a primary irrigation source for agricultural land in Punjab, meaning microplastic contamination directly threatens food safety and drinking water quality for millions of people downstream.
Microplastics in water, sediments, and fish at Alpine River, originating from the Hindu Kush Mountain, Pakistan: implications for conservation
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Researchers examined microplastic contamination in water, sediments, and fish from the Swat River in Pakistan, originating from the Hindu Kush Mountains. The study found microplastics present across all sample types, even in this relatively remote mountain river system, with concentrations linked to municipal and industrial discharges along the river.
Microplastic pollution in the Himalayas: Occurrence, distribution, accumulation and environmental impacts
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This review documents microplastic contamination throughout the Himalayan region, from mountain glaciers and rivers to remote high-altitude locations. Microplastics reach these areas through wind, precipitation, tourism waste, and river transport, and can become trapped in glacial ice before being released during snowmelt. The findings show that even one of the most remote places on Earth is not free from microplastic pollution, with implications for the billions of people who depend on Himalayan rivers for drinking water.
Occurrence, Characterization, and Potential Ecological Risks of Microplastics in the Himalayan Riverine Systems
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Scientists found tiny plastic particles (microplastics) in Himalayan rivers that feed into the Ganges and Yamuna, with pollution levels rising as the water flows through more populated downstream areas — meaning even remote mountain water sources aren't safe from plastic contamination. Worse, these plastic bits act like tiny magnets for heavy metals, detergent chemicals, and microbes, potentially carrying harmful substances into the water systems that communities rely on for drinking and irrigation.
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