It is learnt that people in Goa may be unknowingly ingesting microplastics along with their drinking water, a new study by the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) and Delhi-based advocacy groups Toxic Link has reportedly found. It is understood that the main source of microplastics is polluted river water. People have been throwing plastic waste in the water-bodies despite several warnings by the authorities. Microplastics are there in the water due to the contamination, but when water passes through plastic pipes, it adds more microplastics. In the past, typically metallic piping made of steel or iron, such as carbon steel, stainless steel, galvanized steel, brass, and ductile iron was used. Plastic particles are less than 5mm in size. The pollutants also have an impact on marine life. Fish ingest these microplastics which ultimately end in the human body when the fish is consumed. There is enough evidence to prove that microplastics affect the human body. Microplastics in the blood can cause nervous breakdown, affect various organs and is even carcinogenic. Various government bodies and civic bodies in Goa need to work in tandem in order to address waste management and improve the filtration process.
