The Impact of Anthropogenic Activities on the Catchment’s Water Quality Parameters

Abstract

Anthropogenic pollution of watersheds significantly threatens aquatic ecosystems, biodiversity, and human health. The present review examines the primary sources of contamination in river catchments, including industrial effluents, agricultural runoff, and urban wastewater discharge. The presence of pollutants degrades water quality, disrupting aquatic habitats and leading to adverse outcomes, including biodiversity loss, eutrophication, and declining fish populations. It also focuses on strategic mitigation approaches, including implementing stricter waste management regulations, adopting sustainable agricultural practices, improving wastewater treatment infrastructure, and public education initiatives. The article summarizes several biotechnological techniques developed to decrease the impact of farming activities on water quality. It also emphasises directions that could be followed concerning specific water chemical indicators, such as the residual quantity of heavy metals. Emphasis is placed on the need for integrated policy frameworks and cross-sector collaboration to safeguard freshwater systems and ensure long-term environmental sustainability.