Comprehensive Review on Microplastic Pollution in Inland Waters of India

Microplastic pollution has emerged as a significant environmental concern in inland aquatic ecosystems, primarily due to its persistent nature, widespread presence, and potential risks to ecological stability and human health. In India, rapid industrialization, urbanization, and inefficient plastic waste management have exacerbated the accumulation of microplastics in freshwater bodies such as rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and wetlands. This review critically examines the sources, distribution patterns, ecological implications, detection techniques, and mitigation strategies associated with microplastic contamination in Indian inland waters. Microplastics originate from diverse sources, including industrial effluents, untreated domestic sewage, agricultural runoff, fishing-related activities, and atmospheric deposition. Major riverine networks, including the Ganga, Yamuna, and Brahmaputra, exhibit significant microplastic pollution, with distribution patterns influenced by hydrological dynamics, land-use practices, and demographic pressures. The ingestion and bioaccumulation of microplastics pose severe threats to aquatic organisms, leading to physiological and behavioral disturbances. Moreover, the potential for microplastics to transfer through trophic levels raises critical concerns regarding their implications for human health. Various analytical methodologies, including optical microscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Raman spectroscopy, have been employed to identify and characterize microplastics. However, discrepancies in analytical standardization continue to pose challenges for accurate quantification and comparison across studies. Effective mitigation measures necessitate the implementation of advanced waste management systems, stringent regulatory policies such as plastic bans, improved recycling technologies, and comprehensive policy frameworks. Despite these efforts, knowledge gaps persist concerning the long-term ecological consequences and the effectiveness of existing regulatory measures. Addressing microplastic pollution requires a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach involving scientific research, government regulations, and community participation. This review highlights the pressing need for extensive investigations and sustainable intervention strategies to safeguard India's freshwater ecosystems from the detrimental impacts of microplastic contamination.