Should You Drink Glacier Water Directly? Is It Safe To Consume It?

Wait, are you thinking of drinking glacial water?

by Shreya Ghosh
Should You Drink Glacier Water Directly? Is It Safe To Consume It?

We all know that the planet Earth is covered 70 per cent by water and 30 per cent by land. As a kid, we often thought if there is endless water present on the planet, what is the reason behind water scarcity? With time, we have understood the differences between usable and non-usable water. Apart from seas and oceans, the glaciers also lock a large amount of water in frozen form. Ever wondered why we do not use glacier water directly?

Can You Drink Glacier Water?

Glacier Water
Picture credit- Canva

In the past, we have read about the traumatising news of melting glaciers and their impact on rising sea levels. Climate changes and global warming are significant reasons behind this scary change in nature and how glaciers are melting rapidly. It is indeed alarming and bears the risk of disastrous situations in the near future. Amid the melting of glaciers and rising sea levels, does the thought of whether glacier water is suitable for human consumption come to your mind? If yes, we have answers to all your questions.

Glacier water is not at all recommended for direct consumption. It is simply not healthy to drink it without treating it properly and following the necessary steps and processes. In the past few months, there have been many conversations and debates regarding this topic. While different people might have their opinions about their preference to drink or not drink glacier water directly, we should not forget that it is extremely unsafe to do so.

But why is it considered to be unsafe? Glacial water is just the molten form of ice, right? Similar thoughts come to many people’s minds but there are chances of health risks if someone drinks it without proper filtration. A crucial filtration process and steps to disinfect the liquid are significant methods to make glacial water suitable for consumption.

Also read: Scenic Vistas, Glaciers And More! 5 Things To Do In Munsiyari, Uttarakhand’s Little Kashmir

Why Is It Unheathy?

Glacier Water
Picture credit- Canva
  • There are high chance that glacial water might contain lead or arsenic from the rocks. This possibility depends on the geology of the glaciers.
  • Dirt, germs, pathogens, faecal matter, and bacteria are often present in the glacial water.
  • Apart from germs, the water can even contain small rock particles and different debris hampering the quality of water.

Also read: Savour A Sip Of Coffee At The Highest Coffee Shop In The World, At 4860 Meters Up On Dagu Glacier

Do not waste water unnecessarily and drink only from edible and healthy sources.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva

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