SOIL CHEMICAL DEGRADATION DUE TO LONG-TERM IRRIGATION WITH CARPET INDUSTRY WASTEWATER: A CASE STUDY OF BHADOHI DISTRICT, UTTAR PRADESH

Abstract

Carpet manufacturing in Bhadohi (India’s “Carpet City”) generates significant quantities of wastewater rich in salts, organic matter, synthetic dyes, and heavy metals. In many local agricultural areas, untreated or partially treated effluent is used for irrigation due to water scarcity and economic constraints. This study evaluates the effects of long-term irrigation with carpet industry wastewater on soil chemical properties and assesses the potential consequences for soil health, crop productivity, and environmental sustainability. Soil samples were collected from irrigated fields at different distances from discharge points and compared with reference (non-irrigated) soils. Results indicate substantial increases in salinity, pH, heavy metal accumulation and nutrient imbalance. The findings call for urgent policy intervention and adoption of safer irrigation practices.