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Microplastics distribution in freshwater lake and drinking water treatment plant: A case study
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Researchers investigated microplastic contamination in a freshwater lake in Chennai, India that serves as a drinking water source for the city. Microplastics were detected in lake water and in the treated drinking water supply, including fibers, fragments, and pellets. The findings highlight a drinking water safety concern and the inadequacy of conventional treatment for microplastic removal.
At present freshwater bodies including lakes are highly polluted with various pollutants. A study was conducted to investigate the presence of microplastics in a fresh water lake which is the drinking water source for Chennai city, Tamil Nadu India. Water samples were collected during the pre-monsoon period (October 2019) from the lake (Puzhal Lake), the inlet and outlet of the drinking water treatment plant and analysed for the presence of microplastics (MPs). The surface water collected from the lake harbored 3 to 4 microplastics litre-1 of water. The samples collected from inlet and outlet of the treatment plant also had 3 to 4 microplastics/liter of water. Most of the MPs were in the form of fibers (76%) and the MPs detected were red, green, black, blue and white in colour.
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Microplastics in freshwater lakes: A case study from Southern India
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Researchers assessed microplastic contamination in Vellayani Lake, a major drinking water source in southern India, and found particles present across all sampling sites and seasons. Fibers were the most common shape, with polyethylene and polypropylene as the dominant polymer types, likely originating from domestic wastewater and fishing activities. The study highlights the need for monitoring microplastic pollution in freshwater lakes that serve as critical drinking water supplies.
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Researchers analyzed microplastic pollution in water and sediment samples from North Chennai, India, finding contamination at all sampling sites. Landfills, densely populated areas, and tourist spots had the highest concentrations, with pollution risk levels ranging from low to extremely high. The presence of microplastics in lake water used for drinking purposes is a concern for human health in the region.
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A Critical Review on the Characterization and Distribution of Microplastic Contaminants in Indian Water Environments: Pathways and Related Hazards
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