Pathogens, Pollutants, and People – Health Hazards of Class C Sludge and Safer Alternatives

Author(s)	Mr. Rusheel Nikunj Shah
Country	India
Abstract	This report delves into the profound health implications of Class C sewage sludge management in India. We examine current disposal practices, their consequences, and explore the promising potential of converting sludge into organic fertilizer as a vital strategy for mitigating health risks, drawing insights from various Indian urban case studies. 1 Our findings reveal that the improper disposal of untreated Class C sludge directly leads to severe health challenges. This includes the widespread incidence of waterborne diseases like cholera, dysentery, and typhoid in Delhi, stemming from pathogen-laden water contamination.2 We also observe chronic health issues such as kidney damage, neurological disorders, and cancer in Mumbai and Kanpur, directly linked to the accumulation of toxic heavy metals.4 Furthermore, respiratory problems like asthma and bronchitis in Bangalore are exacerbated by air pollution from decomposing sludge.6 The persistent presence of helminth eggs and other dangerous pathogens 9 in Class C sludge only amplifies these concerns.
Keywords	Class C sewage sludge, health impact, waterborne diseases, heavy metal toxicity, respiratory issues, sludge-to-fertilizer, wastewater treatment, India, pathogen reduction.
Field	Medical / Pharmacy
Published In	Volume 7, Issue 4, July-August 2025
Published On	2025-07-07
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i04.49612
Short DOI	https://doi.org/g9s9c6

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International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research