In the heart of Bangladesh, where the Buriganga and Dhaleshwari rivers weave through bustling urban and industrial landscapes, a silent crisis is unfolding. These vital waterways, lifelines for millions, are under siege from an invisible enemy: emerging contaminants. A recent study published in the journal ‘Toxics’ (which translates to ‘Toxins’ in English) sheds light on the alarming levels of heavy metals and microplastics polluting these rivers, with profound implications for public health, ecosystems, and even the energy sector.
Led by Raju Kumar Das from the Department of Textile Engineering at the University of Scholars in Dhaka, the research paints a stark picture. The Buriganga River, for instance, shows extreme contamination levels, with chromium (Cr) concentrations in surface water reaching up to 167,160 micrograms per liter (μg/L) and lead (Pb) up to 3,830 μg/L. “The levels of heavy metals in these rivers are not just concerning; they are alarming,” Das asserts. “They far exceed safety thresholds, posing significant risks to both ecosystems and human health.”
The Dhaleshwari River, while slightly less contaminated, still exhibits elevated levels of heavy metals. Chromium, cadmium (Cd), lead, nickel (Ni), and iron (Fe) are among the most prevalent pollutants, with industrial discharges from textile, leather, and metal processing industries identified as primary sources. Microplastics, too, are ubiquitous, with polymers like polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) dominating the contamination landscape.
The commercial impacts of this pollution are far-reaching, particularly for the energy sector. Rivers are crucial for cooling thermal power plants, and contaminated water can lead to biofouling and corrosion, increasing maintenance costs and reducing efficiency. Moreover, the energy sector often relies on water bodies for disposal of waste heat, and the presence of heavy metals and microplastics can exacerbate environmental degradation, leading to stricter regulatory scrutiny and potential operational disruptions.
Das’s study highlights the urgent need for comprehensive bioaccumulation studies, long-term monitoring, and enhanced detection techniques. “We need a multi-pronged approach to tackle this issue,” Das emphasizes. “Strengthening environmental regulations, improving waste management, and adopting sustainable industrial practices are critical steps in mitigating the impacts of these emerging contaminants.”
The research also underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. Engineers, scientists, policymakers, and industry stakeholders must work together to develop innovative solutions that balance industrial growth with environmental sustainability. For the energy sector, this could mean investing in advanced water treatment technologies and exploring alternative cooling methods that minimize reliance on contaminated water bodies.
As Bangladesh continues to industrialize, the pressure on its river systems will only intensify. The findings of this study serve as a wake-up call, urging stakeholders to act decisively to protect these vital ecosystems and ensure a sustainable future. The research not only highlights the immediate risks but also paves the way for future developments in environmental monitoring and remediation technologies, shaping the trajectory of the field for years to come.