Degradation of inorganic as well as organic compounds consisting of benzene, toluene, xylene, phenol, polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), sulfide components and persistent organic pollutants from petroleum refinery wastewater is reviewed in the following paper. Multiple methods involving biological processes, UV process, chemical processes like electrocoagulation, adsorption are used to remove the pollutants, making the refinery wastewater from petroleum safe to dispose. These methods are first broadly classified into primary and secondary treatment. There are conventional and advanced methods under each category serving the requirement of removal of pollutants. Advanced methods are more particular towards particular component specifically. Out of all types of methods for each component the most apt method was found based on multiple parameters like operating conditions, efficiency, catalyst. All these components posed threat not only to environment but to human life as well. The toxicity is reduced before disposing to ensure the nature and aquatic life is not harmed.