A PROJECT WORK ON

POLLUTION IN BAGMARA

A Project Report
Submitted to
Department of zoology
SOS Hermann Gmeiner School Gandaki
Pokhara – 15, Kaski, Nepal

Submitted by
Saroj Adhikari
Class 11(A)
Roll no. 39
Under Supervision: Hemanta Dhakal

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 1. ABSTRACT
This comprehensive study “Pollution in Bagmara” delves into the intricate dynamics of soil
pollution in Bagmara, meticulously examining the multifaceted impact of diverse human
activities on the local soil quality. It systematically identifies prevalent contaminants and their
concentrations, providing a nuanced understanding of the complex web of potential pollution
sources. Beyond ecological implications, the research explores the intricate interplay of
potential risks to human health stemming from contaminated soil in Bagmara, emphasizing the
need for a holistic approach to environmental health. The study goes further to evaluate and
propose a spectrum of remediation strategies, aiming to effectively mitigate soil pollution and
restore environmental balance. Moreover, it puts forth thoughtful recommendations for
sustainable practices in environmental conservation, offering a comprehensive framework for
long-term resilience. These findings are pivotal for informing local policymakers, engaging
community stakeholders, and rallying environmentalists to spearhead collective initiatives for
preserving the intricate soil integrity in Bagmara. By cultivating awareness and facilitating
action, the study advocates for a healthier and more sustainable environment, fostering the
well-being of both ecosystems and the local community.

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 Table of Contents
1. Title page-------------------------------------------------------------1
2. Abstract---------------------------------------------------------------2
3. Table of contents---------------------------------------------------3
4. INTRODUCTION
 General background-----------------------------------------------4
 Objectives of study-------------------------------------------------5
 Study area-------------------------------------------------------------5

5. Materials and methods-------------------------------------------5

6. Observations---------------------------------------------------------6 – 7
7. Results-----------------------------------------------------------------7 – 9
8. Mitigation measures-----------------------------------------------9 – 10
9. Conclusion------------------------------------------------------------10 – 11
10.References------------------------------------------------------------11

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 1. Introduction

1.1 General Background

Globally, pollution constitutes a formidable environmental challenge emanating from diverse

sources, including industrial discharges, vehicular emissions, and inadequate waste
management. This pervasive issue exerts profound influences on the quality of air, water, and
soil, exerting far-reaching impacts on ecosystems and human well-being across the planet.
Effectively mitigating this crisis necessitates the adoption of sustainable practices, the rigorous
enforcement of regulatory frameworks, and the cultivation of international collaboration.

Within the national confines of Nepal, pollution emerges as a substantial environmental

quandary, precipitated by multifarious sources such as industrial discharges, vehicular
emissions, and deficient waste management practices. This prevalent issue significantly affects
the integrity of air, water, and soil, exerting extensive ramifications on ecosystems and the
collective well-being of the populace. Addressing this complex challenge mandates the
incorporation of sustainable methodologies, the stringent enforcement of regulatory measures,
and the cultivation of collaborative endeavors on both domestic and international fronts.

In Bagmara, there's a serious problem with soil pollution, and it's more widespread than other
types of pollution like air or water pollution. The soil, which is crucial for farming, is facing
higher levels of contamination. This poses a big challenge for agriculture and the overall
environment in Bagmara. The quality of the soil is under threat, potentially leading to lower
crop production and affecting the livelihoods of those who depend on farming in the area. It's
important to address this issue promptly by finding ways to reduce soil pollution in Bagmara,
ensuring a healthier environment for the community.

1.2 Objectives of the study

 To detect the impact of pollution in Bagmara

 To raise community awareness about pollution and its effects
 To find out the possible mitigation measures

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 1.3 Study area

The study was conducted in Bagmara which is located in Pokhara – 33 of Kaski district.
Geographically it is located between 28.1335° N latitude, 84.0619° E longitude (Lekhnath
33700). It is at an altitude of 818 m from sea level.

Figure 1: location of Bagmara

Materials and Methods

The field study was conducted on 7th – 10th November 2023 in Bagmara (a small developing
village situated in Pokhara-33, Kaski), Nepal. Both primary and secondary data were used for
the study. Primary data on the condition of pollution were collected through observation of the
locality, consultation and discussion with local people. The data generated from consultation
were verified using various other internet sources. Articles about pollution were also used as a
reference just as secondary sources in this study.

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 Observations

A small group of 4 friends was formed to observe the soil pollution in Bagmara. We looked
through our locality in detail and we found out that soil pollution is a major threat in our
locality than the other ones. We consulted the matter with some environmentalists and found
out that the soil was tested during the 2021/22 annual year and it exhibited elevated levels of
heavy metals (such as lead, cadmium and chromium) which exceeded established safety
standards. Agricultural areas demonstrate increased pesticide residues, indicating potential
agricultural runoff and pesticide usage according to the farmers and locals. The farmers from
contaminated areas reported changes in crop health and yield, expressing concerns about the
long term sustainability of agriculture. We researched through the internet and found out the
same problem in not only Bagmara but whole Pokhara. The residential zones of Bagmara show
a moderate level of pollutants in soil which we consider is because of the waste disposal from
households in here. We noticed localized ecological impacts, with variations in soil-dwelling
organisms and reduced biodiversity in areas with high pollutant concentrations. We visualized
the causes of pollution and found out the following major reasons behind soil pollution here:

 Limited Knowledge on Optimal Fertilizer Use

Observations by our group indicate that farmers in the village did not have access to or
knowledge about optimal fertilizer application, potentially leading to overreliance on
chemical fertilizers.
 Unregulated Pesticide Application Practices
Our group noticed that some farmers may be using pesticides without proper guidance,
and protective measures may not be consistently followed during application, raising
concerns about direct soil contamination.
 Inefficient Waste Disposal Practices
It was observed open dumping of household waste and agricultural residues in certain
areas due to the absence of organized waste collection, potentially contributing to soil
pollution.

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  Limited Awareness on Sustainable Farming
Discussions with community members revealed a lack of awareness about sustainable
farming practices, suggesting that education programs on eco-friendly agricultural
methods could be beneficial.
 Deforestation and Erosion
Our group witnessed instances of land clearing without adequate soil conservation
measures, leading to soil erosion and potential loss of topsoil.
 Lack of Environmental Monitoring
The absence of a systematic environmental monitoring system was noted, indicating
potential gaps in identifying and addressing soil pollution issues resulting from
uncontrolled industrial activities.
 Traditional Cooking Practices and Ash Disposal
Through conversations with households, it was observed that traditional cooking
practices involving biomass may contribute to ash deposition on nearby soil, with
potential impacts on soil quality.
 Water Source Contamination Concerns
Our group learned that some communities rely on potentially contaminated water
sources for irrigation, raising questions about the introduction of pollutants into the soil.
 Challenges in Hazardous Waste Management
Limited infrastructure for the disposal of hazardous waste from small-scale industries
was noted, indicating a need for improved waste management practices.
 Preference for Traditional Farming Methods
Our group found that there is a strong preference for traditional farming methods, and
discussions suggested that encouraging the adoption of modern conservation
techniques might be met with some resistance.

Results

1. Loss of soil fertility

Soil pollution often involves the accumulation of pollutants such as heavy metals, pesticides,
and industrial chemicals, which can negatively impact soil fertility. These substances can alter

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the chemical composition of the soil, inhibiting the growth of plants and reducing agricultural
productivity.

2. Contamination of Groundwater:

- Pollutants from the soil can leach into groundwater, leading to the contamination of
underground water sources. This not only affects the quality of drinking water but also has
widespread implications for ecosystems and the communities that rely on these water sources
for various purposes.

3. Health Risks for Humans and Animals:

- Soil pollutants can enter the food chain, posing health risks for humans and animals.
Consuming crops or animals that have been exposed to contaminated soil can lead to the
ingestion of harmful substances, causing a range of health issues, including respiratory
problems, neurological disorders, and reproductive issues.

4. Erosion and Soil Degradation:

- Soil pollution can contribute to soil erosion and degradation. The presence of pollutants may
alter the soil structure, making it more susceptible to erosion by wind and water. This can lead
to the loss of topsoil, which is crucial for plant growth, and further exacerbate issues related to
land degradation.

5. Disruption of Ecosystem:

- Soil pollution disrupts the balance of ecosystems by affecting the organisms that inhabit the
soil. Microorganisms, insects, and other soil-dwelling organisms play crucial roles in nutrient

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cycling and maintaining ecological balance. Disrupting these populations can have cascading
effects on the entire ecosystem, leading to biodiversity loss and ecological instability.

6. Impact on Agriculture and Food Security:

- Agricultural practices rely heavily on healthy soil for successful crop growth. Soil pollution
can lead to decreased crop yields, affecting the livelihoods of farmers and contributing to food
insecurity. The long-term impact on agriculture can have economic repercussions and pose
challenges to global food supply chains.

Mitigation measures

Mitigating soil pollution requires a combination of local, regional, and national efforts. Some of
such efforts regarded to create vast difference in pollution level are:

- Waste Management and Recycling Programs:

Effective waste management strategies should be implemented at the local level to

minimize the disposal of hazardous waste in landfills. Encourage recycling programs for
household and industrial waste to reduce the amount of pollutants entering the soil.

- Promote Sustainable Agriculture Practices:

Local farmers should give consideration to adopt sustainable agricultural practices such as
organic farming, crop rotation, and agroforestry. These practices help maintain soil health,
reduce the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and prevent soil degradation.

- Contaminated Site Remediation:

Contaminated sites should be identified and prioritized for remediation efforts. Implement soil
remediation technologies to clean up polluted areas, including the use of plants for
phytoremediation or microbial remediation methods.

- Buffer Zones and Green Infrastructure:

Buffer zones and green infrastructure should be established around industrial areas to absorb

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and filter pollutants before they reach the soil. This can include planting vegetation along
waterways and implementing green roofs and permeable pavements to reduce runoff.

- Enforcement of Environmental Regulations:

Environmental regulations should be enhanced and enforced related to soil pollution at the
national level. This includes monitoring industrial activities, setting emission standards, and
imposing penalties for non-compliance to ensure that industries responsibly manage their
waste.

- Research and Development for Sustainable Practices:

Invest in research and development to identify and promote sustainable practices that
prevent soil pollution. This can involve supporting research on eco-friendly alternatives to
harmful agrochemicals, innovative waste management technologies, and sustainable land use
planning.

- Public Awareness and Education Campaigns:

Implement national-level awareness campaigns to educate the public, industries, and

agricultural communities about the consequences of soil pollution and the importance of
adopting sustainable practices. Public awareness can lead to behavioral changes and increased
support for pollution prevention measures.

Conclusion

In conclusion, soil pollution poses significant threats to the environment, human health, and overall
ecosystem sustainability. The consequences of soil pollution are wide-ranging and include reduced
agricultural productivity, water contamination, biodiversity loss, human health risks, economic impacts,
and long-term environmental persistence of pollutants. The need for effective mitigation measures is
paramount to address and prevent further degradation of soil quality.

Mitigating soil pollution requires a multifaceted approach that incorporates preventive measures,
remediation techniques, and sustainable land management practices. Reducing chemical inputs through
integrated pest management and organic farming practices, proper waste disposal, contaminated site
remediation using phytoremediation and bioremediation, soil erosion prevention strategies, monitoring

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and regulatory measures, education and awareness initiatives, revegetation, and thoughtful land-use
planning are key components of a comprehensive strategy.

It is crucial for governments, industries, farmers, researchers, and the public to collaborate in
implementing and enforcing these measures. Public awareness and education about the consequences
of soil pollution play a vital role in promoting responsible environmental practices. By adopting
sustainable practices and embracing environmentally friendly approaches, societies can work towards
preserving and restoring soil health, ensuring the wellbeing of current and future generations and
fostering a more sustainable relationship with the planet.

References

 Local people residing in Bagmara

 The ward office of Bagmara
 Various known environmentalist near Bagmara(Khem Prasad Dhakal, Ram Krishna
Maharjan )
 Internet sites such as Wikipedia, Britannia and others
 My own friends circle

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