The State of California has declared an environmental emergency after detecting hazardous levels of PFAS (forever chemicals) in the water supply of 35 cities, including Sacramento, Fresno, and San Diego.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced a $400 million cleanup initiative and lawsuits against several chemical companies. Health experts have linked PFAS exposure to cancer, thyroid disease, and birth defects.
This alarming situation has drawn attention in countries like India and Bangladesh, where industrial waste management in rivers is a persistent issue. Environmental activists are urging South Asian governments to conduct similar water audits to prevent silent contamination crises.
