World · India Bureau
Kerala rivers show dangerous faecal contamination levels in latest water quality tests
Water samples from six Kerala rivers have revealed alarming levels of faecal contamination, according to results from the National Water Quality Monitoring Programme. The contamination levels ranged from 4,500 to 550,000 MPN per 100 millilitres at polluted stretches during tests conducted between February and May.
LSN India ·
Six rivers across Kerala have been found to contain dangerously high levels of faecal contamination, raising fresh concerns about water quality in the state. Analysis of water samples under the National Water Quality Monitoring Programme detected total coliform counts—a key indicator of faecal pollution—at levels varying between 4,500 and 550,000 most probable number (MPN) per 100 millilitres during the February to May testing period.
The wide variation in contamination levels across different stretches of the six rivers suggests significant pollution hotspots in the state's water systems. Total coliform bacteria serve as an important marker for the presence of disease-causing pathogens and indicate potential contamination from sewage and animal waste.
The findings underscore ongoing challenges with water quality management in Kerala's river systems, which supply drinking water and irrigation to millions of residents. Experts attribute such contamination to inadequate sewage treatment infrastructure, industrial discharge, and agricultural runoff in upstream areas.
The data from the National Water Quality Monitoring Programme, which conducts regular assessments across Indian water bodies, suggests the need for immediate intervention and enhanced pollution control measures in the affected river systems. State authorities are expected to take corrective action to address the contamination sources and improve water treatment protocols.