Question

The main cause of abundant coliform bacteria in the river Ganga is

• A. Disposal of unburnt corpses into water
• B. Discharge of effluents from electroplating industries
• C. Washing of clothes
• D. Immersion of ashes

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Disposal of unburnt corpses into water

The correct option is A.

Explanation of the correct option:

1. Coliform bacteria is abundantly present in the environment and contaminates water bodies.
2. The coliform level in the Ganga river is 3-12 times higher compared to permissible levels.
3. Disposal of unburnt corpses into the river pollutes it and releases such coliform bacteria into the waterbody.
4. The human excreta present in unburnt corpses introduce such bacteria into the river.

Explanation of the incorrect options:

Option B:

The industrial wastes generated by electroplating industries include toxic cyanide, heavy metal ions, oils, grease, and organic solvents.

Option C:

The washing of clothes in the river releases detergents into the waterbody and pollutes it.

Option D:

The immersion of ashes into the river causes water pollution.

Final answer: The main cause of abundant coliform bacteria in the river Ganga is the disposal of unburnt corpses in the water.