Is Delhi Water Safe? How Rising Ammonia Levels In Yamuna Can Harm Your Health – Tips To Stay Safe

Ammonia levels in the Yamuna river have increased yet again, causing concern for Delhi residents. On Friday, the levels reached 8 ppm, far above the 1 ppm limit that water treatment plants can handle. This could affect the water supply and pose serious health risks to people residing in Delhi-NCR. But why is this happening? What health problems can it cause?

Why Ammonia Levels In Yamuna Is Increasing?

Pollution in the Yamuna has been a problem for years, but it worsens in winter when the river’s flow decreases, allowing pollutants to build up. The main causes of ammonia in the water include:

- Industrial waste – Factories release harmful chemicals, including fertilizers, dyes, and plastics, into the river.

- Decomposed waste – Organic matter breaks down in the river, producing ammonia.

- Toxic foam – A thick layer of toxic foam appears on the river’s surface, especially during festival seasons, making the problem worse.

How Can Ammonia Affect Your Health?

Exposure to ammonia in drinking water can cause:

- Memory And Concentration Problems – High ammonia levels can affect brain function.

- Skin Irritation And Rashes Due To Polluted Water: Taking a shower or washing hands with polluted water can cause skin irritation, rashes, and infections. The water of Yamuna contains high levels of phosphates, detergents, and other harmful chemicals that can lead to allergic reactions or worsen existing skin conditions like eczema.

- Stomach Issues – Drinking contaminated water can lead to nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.

- Exposure To Chemicals: The chemicals including heavy metals like mercury and lead, can be absorbed into the human body through skin contact or consumption of water from the river. Long-term exposure to these chemicals can cause chronic health problems, including damage to the liver, kidneys, and nervous system.

- Higher Risk For Babies And People With Existing Health Problems – Infants and people with existing health conditions are more vulnerable.

How To Stay Safe?While authorities work on fixing the issue, here’s what you can do:

1. Don’t Drink Tap Water Directly

If you rely on municipal water, boil it before drinking. Using an RO (reverse osmosis) water purifier is a safer option.

2. Check Your Water Quality

If your water smells bad or looks cloudy, avoid using it for drinking or cooking. Water testing kits can help you check its safety.

3. Use Advanced Water Purifiers

Regular purifiers may not be enough. Look for filtration systems that specifically remove ammonia and other harmful chemicals.

4. Be Careful While Bathing

If you notice skin irritation after a shower, use bottled or purified water for washing your face and sensitive areas.

5. Keep Safe Drinking Water Ready

Always have a supply of bottled or boiled water for children and elderly family members.

What Needs to Be Done?

The Yamuna’s pollution problem isn’t new, and it will continue unless stricter action is taken. Industries need better waste management, and pollution control measures must be enforced more effectively.

For now, staying aware and taking precautions can help keep you and your family safe.

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