Textile effluents changes physiochemical parameters of water and soil: Threat for agriculture

Textile is the foremost part of industrial sectors in Bangladesh and is the major source of water and soil pollution. More than 80% people are depending on agricultural sectors for their livelihood in Bangladesh. This study investigates the impacts of textile pollution on agricultural land and water in NarsingdiSadar. A total of 50 water and soil samples were collected from the study area and analyzed to determine concentration of physiochemical parameters of water and soil. Analysis revealed the values of the parameters are as pH (7.56-9.68), EC (17040-38040 μs/cm), Temperature (30.24-51.22°C), DO (1.16-4.65 mg/L), COD (810.60-1430.43 mg/L), BOD (305.58-608.16 mg/L) and TDS (3456.75-38450.26 mg/L). These values are negatively deviated from the standard values set by the Department of Environment (DOE)for textile effluents. The amount of N (0.217-0.787 μg/g), P (27.50-30.70 μg/g) and K (0.165-2 μg/g) were also found deviated from the standard values prescribed by Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) for agricultural soil. Major rivers flowing over these industrial regions, like Burigonga, Sitalokka and Turag, have been severely polluted by textile and other pollutants as well as causing serious impact on environment. Government should strictly implement the existing environmental and industrial laws in textile effluent management.