High Ammonia Content in Yamuna Water: A Growing Concern

The Yamuna River, one of the most vital water sources for millions of people in India, has been facing severe pollution for years. Among the many effects of this pollution, high ammonia levels have emerged as a major concern, threatening both aquatic life and drinking water safety. This blog explores the causes of ammonia pollution in the Yamuna, its impact, and how chlorination has been an effective solution.

Causes of High Ammonia Levels

Ammonia contamination in the Yamuna primarily results from industrial discharges and untreated sewage. Factories located in the Panipat and Sonipat districts contribute significantly to this pollution, releasing effluents that include fertilizers, dyes and organic waste into the river before it enters Delhi at Wazirabad. During the dry winter months, the lack of freshwater inflow exacerbates the problem, leading to higher concentrations of pollutants in the river

The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) has reported that ammonia levels can spike to over 5 parts per million (ppm), far exceeding the acceptable limit of 0.5 ppm for drinking water. This high concentration not only disrupts water treatment processes but also poses serious health risks, including neurological disorders and irritation of skin and mucous membranes.
[Read More from Times of India]: High ammonia level in Yamuna river: Know how it can affect those living in Delhi

Impact on Water Supply

The elevated ammonia levels have forced water treatment plants, particularly the Wazirabad facility, to operate at reduced capacity or shut down entirely. The plant can only handle ammonia concentrations up to 1 ppm effectively; anything above that leads to significant disruptions in water supply. Reports indicate that during periods of high ammonia levels, water production can drop by as much as 50%, resulting in low water pressure and interrupted supply across various parts of Delhi.
[Read More from Hindustan Times]: Yamuna’s Ammonia levels affect water supply in Delhi

Chlorination: A Reliable Solution

To combat high ammonia levels, chlorination is employed as a primary treatment method. The Delhi Jal Board utilizes chlorine to neutralize ammonia in the water. About 11.5 kg of chlorine is required per liter of water per hour to treat 1 ppm of ammonia. The process involves adding chlorine to water to neutralize harmful substances, including ammonia. 

Here’s how it works:

1. Breaks Down Ammonia: Chlorine reacts with ammonia to form chloramines, reducing the toxicity of the water.
2. Disinfects Water: Chlorination kills bacteria and pathogens that thrive in polluted water, ensuring safer drinking water.
3. Prevents Algae Growth: By reducing ammonia, chlorination helps control excessive algae blooms, which deplete oxygen in the water.
4. Cost-Effective Treatment: Chlorination is a well-established, relatively inexpensive method for large-scale water treatment.

Challenges and Considerations

The Delhi government has proposed setting up an in-situ ammonia treatment plant at Wazirabad as part of its strategy to address this ongoing crisis. While chlorination is an effective solution, it comes with certain challenges:

• Formation of Chloramines: Though chloramines are less toxic than ammonia, they can still impact water quality and require additional treatment.
• Proper Dosage Control: Excess chlorine can lead to undesirable taste, odor, and potential health concerns.
• Sustainable Pollution Control: Chlorination should be part of a broader strategy, including improved sewage treatment and industrial waste regulation.

Conclusion

The high ammonia content in the Yamuna River has been a long standing and pressing issue that needs action. Chlorination presents a viable and effective solution for reducing ammonia levels and ensuring safe water for millions. However, it should be combined with stricter pollution controls, better wastewater treatment, and sustainable water management practices to restore the Yamuna to its former glory.

At Pristine Water, we specialize in advanced water treatment solutions, including electrochlorination systems, to provide efficient and sustainable water purification. Governments, industries, and citizens must come together to implement long-term solutions. Supporting clean-up initiatives, enforcing regulations, and adopting better waste management practices will go a long way in protecting our water resources.