Assessing the impact of groundwater pollution induced externalities – A case of Vrishabavathi river basin Karnataka, Peninsular India

This study pertains to Vrishabavathi river basin area of Bangalore rural district in Karnataka, Peninsular India wherein groundwater pollution is evident. The main sources of water pollution are untreated raw industrial effluents and domestic sewage that have been discharged into the river from the urban fringe. This has severely impaired the quality of water rendering water unfit for potable and agricultural use. The use of polluted groundwater for growing crops has reduced crop productivity and brought in poor product image, in addition to posing health hazards. This study aimed at valuing the economic effects of poor quality groundwater on crop productivity, human and animal health and surrounding ecosystem. This study also addressed economics of recycling polluted water.