The most polluted rivers in the world include the Ganges River, Yellow River, Citarium River, Buriganga River, Sarno River, and many more.
Rivers are a vital part of our environment. They house millions of precious species in addition to providing billions of people with clean drinking water. On the other hand, worldwide river pollution is on a rise. In fact, it is one of the top environmental challenges. The discharge of agricultural, municipal, and industrial pollutants, is seriously damaging river ecosystems and threatening the supply of clean drinking water. And that’s not all! Even more serious consequences arise from dirty rivers entering the ocean.
Here are the top 25 most polluted rivers in the world.
1. Ganges River, India
The Ganges River in India, the world’s 3rd largest river, is unfortunately the most polluted river in the world. Stretching over 1,500 miles, it is supporting over half a billion people. Unfortunately though, it faces a crisis. Daily, untreated sewage and industrial waste flow in, making its waters toxic with levels over 3,000 times the safe limit. Unfortunately, this sacred river also becomes a resting place for human and animal remains. Over 400 million people depend on it, using it for drinking water, agriculture, and bathing. However, there’s hope, as efforts are underway to clean and preserve this revered lifeline while promoting circular economy activities and environmental education programs.
2. Yellow River, China
China’s Yellow River, among the most polluted rivers globally, is facing an alarming transformation. Rapid industrialization, including chemical and pharmaceutical factories, has caused red waste to pump into it, turning it from yellow to a murky brown. The industrialized cities along its banks contribute to the pollution. Efforts are ongoing, with billions of tons of untreated sewage and other sources being addressed. Stricter regulations on industrial discharges and more environmentally friendly farming practices are being enforced to improve the human-environment interaction. The task is challenging, but it’s essential for this river as it has witnessed pollution levels way beyond safe limits.
3. Citarum River, Indonesia
Indonesia’s Citarum River, a contender for the title of the world’s most polluted rivers, is a grave concern. It’s the primary water source for millions, yet it’s inundated with industrial, agricultural, and biological waste. More than 200,000 households release their wastewater into it, creating a toxic cocktail of chemicals. With heavy metals and pesticides, this river is far from safe. But change is on the horizon. Initiatives to address pollution are gaining momentum, focusing on better resource management, sanitation, waste control, and agricultural runoff. This river needs urgent attention, as its contamination poses serious risks to both people and the environment.
4. Buriganga River, Bangladesh
Bangladesh’s Buriganga River is in dire straits, contending for the unenviable title of the world’s most polluted rivers. It’s a lifeline for millions but plagued by industrial and human waste. Shockingly, about 21,000 cubic meters of waste enter the river daily, resulting in widespread health issues like fevers and diarrhea for residents. This river, a symbol of life, is drowning in contamination. Urgent action is needed to restore its health and save countless lives.
5. Sarno River, Italy
This is arguably the most polluted river in Europe. Italy’s Sarno River, an emblem of pollution, contends for a spot among the world’s most polluted rivers. Downstream, it transforms from relatively clean to a toxic mess due to industrial and agricultural waste. Heavy metals and chemicals infiltrate its waters, harming both humans and wildlife. An unsettling discovery of illicit drugs in the water adds a new layer of concern. Urgent measures are vital to reclaim its purity and protect the environment and the lives it touches. It needs sustainable leadership to drive initiatives that will help in cleaning the Sarno River.
6. Yamuna River, India
India’s Yamuna River, once a lifeline, now stands as a stark example of river pollution. It’s a critical tributary of the Ganges and has fallen victim to severe contamination. With Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) levels soaring 50 times higher than safety, the lives of millions are at risk. This pollution isn’t just a threat; it’s a crisis. Urgent action is needed to rescue the Yamuna from its polluted plight and secure a healthier future for both the river and its people.
7. Yangtze River, China
The Yangtze River in China, Asia’s longest river, faces a growing pollution crisis. Its water quality has deteriorated significantly. Shockingly, it’s estimated that over 40% of the Yangtze’s water is now below Grade V, unfit for human contact. Pollution from industrial discharges, agricultural runoff, and urban waste is taking a heavy toll. Urgent measures are necessary to reverse this alarming trend and protect the Yangtze, its ecosystems, and the millions who rely on it for drinking water and livelihoods. It’s a race against time to save this vital lifeline from becoming one of the world’s top polluted rivers.
8. Marilao River, Philippines
The Marilao River in the Philippines is in deep trouble. Over 8 million people rely on it for water, but it’s become one of the most polluted rivers globally. The alarming stats? Heavy metals, including lead and mercury, have skyrocketed, posing a serious health hazard. The reason? Precious metal refining, battery recycling, and other industries dumping waste unchecked. It’s a crisis that can’t be ignored. Urgent action is needed to clean up the Marilao, safeguard the health of the local population, and protect the fragile ecosystems at risk.
9. Mississippi River, USA
The Mississippi River. It’s America’s lifeline. But unfortunately it is the most polluted river in the US. Alarming figures tell the tale – dangerous levels of mercury, PCBs, and sediment in vast stretches. This pollution, fueled by agricultural runoff and untreated sewage, turns a vital waterway into a hazardous one. A massive “dead zone” in the Gulf of Mexico stands as a bleak reminder of our actions. It’s time for action. Stricter regulations, sewage treatment improvements, and responsible farming practices are essential. And there is a lot you can contribute too, for example by making your dental routine more eco-friendly.
10. Doce River, Brazil
The Doce River in Brazil faces a dire pollution crisis and is now part of the most polluted rivers in the world. Though, it’s not just any river; it’s a lifeline for many. But it carries a heavy burden – around 62 million cubic meters of toxic mud, thanks to a catastrophic mining dam failure in 2015. It’s a staggering ecological disaster, with harmful elements like iron, manganese, and arsenic exceeding safe levels. This tragedy demands swift action. Cleanup efforts and suatainable business initiatives are underway, but the clock is ticking.
11. Nile River, Egypt
The Nile, a lifeline for Egypt, faces an alarming pollution crisis. It’s not just a river; it’s a source of life for millions. Yet, it’s drowning in waste. The Nile contains excessive levels of bacteria, heavy metals, and other pollutants, making it unsafe for drinking, bathing, or agriculture. This is a wakeup call – the most polluted rivers in the world list urgently needs an update.
12. Mantaza-Riachuelo River, Argentina
In the heart of Argentina, the Matanza-Riachuelo River is a tragedy in motion. It’s not just polluted; it’s biologically dead. The river suffers from untreated sewage, industrial waste, and rampant pollution. Fishermen have left empty-handed, and communities are at risk. Urgent measures are needed to revive this lifeline. This river deserves a chance to breathe again, to thrive, and to provide clean water to those who call its banks home. It’s time for action!
13. Jordan River, Jordan
The Jordan River, steeped in history and reverence, is now gasping for survival. Pollution levels are soaring, jeopardizing water quality for millions. Overuse, untreated sewage, and industrial waste have turned it into one of the most polluted rivers globally, with salinity levels up to 16 times higher than the World Health Organization’s recommended standards. Ecosystems are on the brink of collapse, and urgent action is needed to rescue this vital source.
14. Tijuana River, Mexico
The Tijuana River, straddling the US-Mexico border, is drowning in pollution. It’s a gateway for waste from both sides, turning it into a polluted hotspot. Each year, millions of gallons of sewage flow into the river, contaminating coastal waters. The Tijuana River serves as a grim reminder that borders can’t contain pollution.
15. Murray-Darling River, Australia
Australia’s Murray-Darling River, once pristine, is now struggling to survive. Pesticides, over-extraction, and pollution have taken a toll. The river, a lifeline for agriculture and communities, is suffering. Algal blooms and fish deaths have become all too common, with over 7,000 recorded fish deaths in one event. We can’t ignore the plight of this iconic river. Environmental activists are demanding action and have started several petitions to clean up the Murray-Darling River.
16. Indus River, Pakistan
The Indus River, a lifeline for Pakistan, is now choking on pollution. An alarming 164 million people depend on this river, but industrial discharge and sewage are taking a heavy toll. The river’s water quality is so dire that it’s unsafe for consumption, with up to 65% of water samples failing to meet safety standards. It’s a harsh reality – one of the most polluted rivers globally, threatening lives and ecosystems.
17. Danube River, Europe
Europe’s Danube River, once pristine, is now grappling with pollution. Over 81 million people rely on it for water, yet industrial and agricultural runoff are rampant. Shockingly, over 700 tons of plastic waste enter the Danube annually. These factors have earned it a dubious title – among the world’s most polluted rivers. It needs a behavioural change by each of us to drive positive change. Oftentimes it is easier than you think to adopt a sustainable lifestyle.
18. Passaic River, USA
The Passaic River in the USA carries the weight of pollution. It’s the water source for over 3.5 million people and many industrial activities, but it’s far from healthy. Lead, mercury, and toxic chemicals from industries have turned this river into one of the most polluted in the world.
19. Salween River, China
China’s Salween River, once a pristine waterway, is now battling pollution. It’s a source of livelihood for over 7 million people. However, industrial waste and unchecked development have taken a toll. Alarming reports reveal that over 80% of the river’s water quality fails to meet safety standards, earning it a place among the world’s most polluted rivers.
20. Rio Grande, USA / Mexico
The Rio Grande, a vital water source for over 5 million people, is in dire straits. Industrial discharge and agricultural runoff have led to excessive contamination. Shockingly, the river’s water quality is so poor that it’s considered unfit for consumption, putting it among the most polluted rivers globally.
21. Niger River, Nigeria
Nigeria’s Niger River, supporting a staggering 130 million people, is grappling with severe pollution. Raw sewage and industrial waste have tarnished its waters. Tragically, over 90% of water samples taken fail to meet safety standards. It’s a stark reality – one of the world’s most polluted rivers, endangering lives and ecosystems.
22. Amur River, Russia / China
The Amur River, supplying water to millions, faces dire water quality issues. Shockingly, a staggering 85% of water samples violate safety standards, laden with industrial pollutants and toxins. The primary culprits include heavy metals, like lead and cadmium, and harmful chemicals, primarily due to industrial discharges and agricultural runoff. The extent of pollution makes the Amur River one of the most polluted rivers globally, posing significant health and environmental risks.
23. Pasig River, Philippines
The Pasig River, once a vital waterway, is now biologically dead. Over 15 million people living along its banks suffer from severe pollution. Its water quality is heavily compromised, with hazardous levels of heavy metals and toxins. The main sources of pollution are untreated sewage, unregulated industrial discharges, and the accumulation of solid waste. The Pasig River’s shockingly poor water quality places it among the world’s most polluted rivers, demanding urgent remediation.
24. Mekong River, Southeast Asia
The Mekong River, a lifeline for millions, faces a grim pollution scenario. Startlingly, over 80% of water samples fail safety standards. This alarming situation results from a high concentration of heavy metals, including lead and cadmium, as well as other harmful pollutants. The primary sources of pollution are industrial discharges and agricultural runoff. The Mekong River’s exceptionally poor water quality cements its status as one of the most polluted rivers globally, necessitating immediate action to protect human health and the environment.
25. Ohio River, USA
The Ohio River, essential for 5 million people, grapples with severe water quality issues. Shockingly, its water doesn’t meet safety standards. This alarming pollution results from a combination of industrial waste, primarily from chemical plants and manufacturing, as well as agricultural runoff containing fertilizers and pesticides. The Ohio River’s deeply compromised water quality designates it as one of the most polluted rivers worldwide while clearly being the most polluted river in the United States, urging immediate measures to safeguard the health of communities and the river’s ecosystem.
FAQs – Most Polluted Rivers in the World
Where Is The Most Polluted River In The World?
Currently, the most polluted river in the world are: the Citarum River in Indonesia, the Ganges in India, and the Buriganga in Bangladesh.
How Can We Stop Water Pollution?
To stop water pollution, we need a multi-pronged approach: stringent regulations, responsible waste disposal, cleaner industrial practices, and public awareness. Collaboration between governments, industries, and communities is key.
Which Rivers In Europe Are Most Polluted?
Several European rivers face pollution issues, including the Rhine, Danube, and Sarno rivers. Industrial discharges, sewage, and agricultural runoff contribute to their contamination.
What Is The Biggest Water Polluter In The World?
Industries, especially those involved in textile production, are major water polluters. Their discharges contain harmful chemicals and heavy metals, contributing significantly to global water pollution.
Can Water Pollution Be Controlled?
Water pollution can be controlled through robust regulations, improved waste management, cleaner industrial processes, and public education. However, it requires a coordinated effort on a global scale.
Which is the highest polluted river in the world?
Currently, the highest polluted rivers in the world are: the Citarum River in Indonesia, the Ganges in India, and the Buriganga in Bangladesh.
What are the 3 most polluted rivers in the world?
The three most polluted rivers globally could include the Citarum in Indonesia, Ganges in India, and Buriganga in Bangladesh, all grappling with severe contamination issues.
What are the 5 most contaminated rivers in the world?
The five most contaminated rivers in the world are: the Citarum in Indonesia, Ganges in India, Buriganga in Bangladesh, Yellow River in China, and Sarno River in Italy.
What are the 12 most polluted rivers in the world?
These are the 12 most polluted rivers in the world:
- Ganges River, India
- Yellow River, China
- Citarum River, Indonesia
- Buriganga River, Bangladesh
- Sarno River, Italy
- Yamuna River, India
- Yangtze River, China
- Marilao River, Philippines
- Mississippi River, USA
- Doce River, Brazil
- Nile River, Egypt
- Mantaza-Riachuelo River, Argentina
What are the most polluted rivers in Asia?
The most polluted rivers in Asia include the Ganges and Yamuna in India, Citarum in Indonesia, Yellow River in China, and Buriganga in Bangladesh.
What are the most polluted rivers in Europe?
Face high pollution issues, the most polluted rivers in Europe are the Danube river and Sarno river; due to industrial discharges, sewage, and agricultural runoff.
What are the most polluted rivers in Africa?
Africa’s most polluted river is the the Nile. It faces contamination from various sources, and it’s struggling with industrial waste and sewage.
Related content:
