Microplastic Pollution in Wular Lake, Kashmir-India (Ramsar Site): First Report and Associated Risk Assessments

Microplastics are a major environmental pollutant, threatening ecosystems and human health. This study investigates microplastic contamination and its associated ecological risks in the sediments of Wular Lake, Kashmir—a Ramsar-designated site. Sediment samples collected from 32 locations were analyzed for microplastic abundance, composition, and pollution hazard. Microplastics were present at all sites, with concentrations ranging from 300 to 1,280 particles per kilogram of dry sediment (p/kg dw) and a mean of 835.6 p/kg dw. Hotspots exceeding 1,000 p/kg dw included sites WL19, WL5, WL2, WL10, and WL20, with the northeastern region being the most contaminated. White (26.9%) and blue (25.5%) particles were predominant, and fibers constituted 74.7% of all morphotypes. Raman spectroscopy identified nylon/polyamide as the primary polymer type (74.7%), followed by polypropylene (18.1%) and polyethylene (6.2%). Pollution Hazard Index (PHI) values ranged from 515 to 15,926, indicating significant contamination and high ecological risk at the majority of sites. These findings reveal widespread microplastic pollution in Wular Lake sediments, characterized by distinct hotspots and elevated environmental risk. The results underscore the urgent need for improved waste management, stronger regulatory measures, and continuous monitoring to protect the ecological integrity of this critical Himalayan wetland.