Ever received your annual water quality report and felt like you were deciphering a foreign language? You're not alone! These reports, while essential for transparency, are often filled with technical jargon and confusing abbreviations that can leave you scratching your head. But don't worry, we're here to help you crack the code. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to understand your water quality report, empowering you to make informed decisions about the water you and your family consume.

Why Should You Care?

Your water quality report is like a health checkup for your drinking water. It provides valuable information about the source of your water and the levels of various contaminants detected during testing. Understanding this information allows you to:

• Assess the safety of your water: Ensure your water meets regulatory standards and identify any potential health risks.
• Make informed choices: Decide if you need to take additional steps to improve your water quality, such as installing a home filtration system.
• Hold your water supplier accountable: Understand if your water supplier is meeting its obligations to provide safe and clean drinking water.

Deconstructing the Report:

Here's a breakdown of the key elements you'll typically find in a water quality report:

• Source Water:

  This section describes where your water comes from (e.g., a lake, river, or groundwater aquifer) and any potential sources of contamination in the watershed.

• Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs):

  MCLs are the maximum allowable levels of contaminants in drinking water set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These standards are designed to protect public health.

• Contaminant List:

  This table lists the various contaminants tested for, their detected levels, and the MCL for each. Common contaminants include:

  • Microbiological contaminants: Such as coliform bacteria, which can indicate the presence of harmful pathogens.
  • Disinfectants: Like chlorine, which is used to kill bacteria but can form byproducts that may have health implications.
  • Inorganic chemicals: Such as lead, arsenic, and nitrates, which can leach into water from natural sources or human activities.
  • Organic chemicals: Including pesticides, herbicides, and industrial solvents, which can contaminate water through runoff or industrial discharge.
  • Radionuclides: Like radon and uranium, which can occur naturally in groundwater.

• Definitions and Abbreviations:

  This section explains the technical terms and abbreviations used in the report, helping you understand the data presented.

• Violation Notices:

  If your water supplier has violated any drinking water standards, this section will provide details about the violation and any corrective actions taken.

Interpreting the Results:

When reviewing the contaminant list, pay close attention to the following:

• Exceedances: If any contaminant level exceeds the MCL, this is a cause for concern and may require further action. Contact your water supplier for more information.
• Units of Measurement: Pay attention to the units of measurement (e.g., parts per million (ppm) or milligrams per litre (mg/L)) to understand the scale of the contaminant levels.
• Health Effects: The report may include information on the potential health effects of each contaminant, helping you understand the risks associated with exposure.

Taking Action

• Contact your water supplier: Discuss your concerns and ask for clarification on any aspects of the report you don't understand.
• Consider home water testing: If you want more detailed information about your water quality, you can purchase a home water testing kit or hire a certified laboratory to analyse your water.
• Explore filtration options: If specific contaminants are a concern, research different water filtration systems that can effectively remove those pollutants.

Access to safe drinking water is a critical public health issue in India. While many urban areas rely on municipal water supplies, rural communities often depend on wells, borewells, or natural water sources. However, the quality of water across these systems can vary significantly. Drinking water quality reports are crucial for understanding the safety of your water, but they’re not as widely available or standardized in India as in some other countries. This guide will help you navigate the landscape of water quality in India and take informed steps to ensure your water is safe.

Kerala, which boasts abundant rainfall and extensive water resources. However, challenges like pollution, aging infrastructure, and localized contamination affect the quality of water in both rural and urban areas. In this guide, we’ll dive into water safety specifics for Kerala, with a particular focus on Trivandrum, the state capital, to help you better understand and address drinking water quality concerns.

1. What are Drinking Water Quality Reports in India ?

In India, water quality monitoring is primarily managed by local municipal corporations, state public health departments, and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). While BIS has established guidelines under IS 10500:2012 for drinking water quality, not all regions consistently adhere to or report compliance with these standards. Municipal water supplies may occasionally release water quality updates, but for those relying on private wells, borewells, or untreated sources, testing is often the individual’s responsibility.

Overview of Water Sources in Kerala

Kerala’s water supply comes from multiple sources, including:

• Rivers: Major rivers like the Periyar, Bharathapuzha, and Pamba are critical water sources but face pollution from industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, and untreated sewage.
• Groundwater: Used extensively in rural areas and for private supply, groundwater is often contaminated with nitrates, iron, and, in some regions, fluoride.
• Lakes and Reservoirs: Vellayani Lake and Aruvikkara Reservoir supply water to urban centers like Trivandrum but are vulnerable to eutrophication and sedimentation.
• Rainwater Harvesting: Promoted widely across Kerala as a sustainable practice but susceptible to contamination without proper maintenance.

2. How to Access Information About Your Water Quality

• Municipal Water Supply: Check with your local municipality or water board for water quality updates. Major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai often provide periodic reports.
• Private Testing Labs: NABL-accredited labs offer water testing services for a fee, which can help identify specific contaminants in private water supplies.
• State or Regional Initiatives: Many state governments run water quality awareness campaigns or offer subsidized testing services, especially in rural areas.

Drinking Water in Trivandrum

Trivandrum relies on surface water sources such as the Aruvikkara Dam, which is fed by the Karamana River. The Kerala Water Authority (KWA) manages the city’s water supply and conducts periodic testing to ensure compliance with standards. However, localized challenges persist:

• Aging Infrastructure: Old pipelines are prone to leaks, leading to contamination from surrounding sewage or soil.
• Seasonal Contamination: Monsoon runoff can introduce higher levels of turbidity and microbial contaminants into water supplies.
• Urbanisation: Rapid development strains the water supply system, increasing the risk of pollution.

3. Key Contaminants to Watch for in India

India faces unique challenges when it comes to water quality. Here are the most common contaminants to be aware of:

• a. Microbiological Contaminants

  Bacteria, viruses, and parasites, often from sewage contamination, are a leading cause of waterborne diseases like diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid.

• b. Chemical Contaminants

  • Fluoride: Excess levels are common in groundwater in states like Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh, causing dental and skeletal fluorosis.
  • Arsenic: Found in parts of West Bengal, Assam, and Bihar, prolonged exposure can lead to cancer and skin lesions.
  • Nitrates: Agricultural runoff in farming regions often introduces high nitrate levels, harmful to infants and pregnant women.

• c. Heavy Metals

  Lead, mercury, and chromium contamination can occur due to industrial discharge into rivers or soil.

• d. Emerging Contaminants

  Pesticides, pharmaceutical residues, and microplastics are increasingly being detected, particularly in urban areas.

Key Contaminants in Kerala’s Water Supply

Based on studies and reports, the following contaminants are common in Kerala, including Trivandrum:

• a. Microbiological Contaminants Coliform bacteria and E. coli are frequently detected, especially in untreated water or poorly maintained tanks.
• b. Chemical Contaminants • Iron and Manganese: Common in groundwater, leading to discoloration and metallic taste. • Nitrates: High levels in agricultural zones due to fertilizer runoff. • Fluoride: Detected in isolated regions, causing dental and skeletal issues with prolonged exposure.
• c. Heavy Metals • Lead and Chromium: Industrial areas near water sources may introduce these toxins into drinking water.
• d. Emerging Contaminants
  • Pesticides: Residues from plantations and agricultural activities leach into surface and groundwater.
  • Microplastics: Found in rivers and coastal waters due to waste mismanagement.

4. Understanding Water Quality Standards in India

The BIS has defined acceptable limits for contaminants under IS 10500:2012. Some of the key parameters include:

• Turbidity: Should not exceed 1 NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Unit).
• pH Levels: Must range between 6.5 and 8.5.
• Total Dissolved Solids (TDS): The acceptable limit is 500 mg/L.
• Total Dissolved Solids (TDS): The acceptable limit is 500 mg/L.
• Chlorine Levels: Residual chlorine should be 0.2 mg/L for safe disinfection.

Compare your water test results against these standards to assess its safety.

Drinking Water Quality Standards in Kerala

Kerala Water Authority follows the Bureau of Indian Standards (IS 10500:2012) for water quality. Here are some critical parameters to monitor:

• Turbidity: Should not exceed 1 NTU.
• Total Dissolved Solids (TDS): Must remain below 500 mg/L.
• pH Levels: Should range between 6.5 and 8.5.
• Residual Chlorine: Should be 0.2 mg/L post-disinfection.
In urban areas like Trivandrum, KWA frequently chlorinates water to combat microbial contamination, but users must monitor residual chlorine levels to avoid excessive exposure.

5. How to Take Action if Your Water Is Unsafe

If your water source shows signs of contamination:

1. Install Filtration Systems: water purifiers with technologies like reverse osmosis (RO), UV treatment, or activated carbon filters, depending on the contaminants identified.

2. Boil Water: Boiling is a simple and cost-effective method to kill bacteria and viruses.

3. Regular Testing: Periodic testing, especially for borewell and well water, is essential to monitor changes in water quality.

4. Rainwater Harvesting: This can supplement your water supply and reduce dependence on contaminated sources.

5. Raise Concerns: Report contamination issues to local authorities or NGOs working in water safety, such as WaterAid India.

Accessing Water Quality Information in Trivandrum

Kerala Water Authority (KWA): Visit the KWA website or contact local offices for recent updates on water quality in Trivandrum.

Private Testing: Labs like Integrated Quality Solutions (IQS) offers water testing services for households and institutions.

Community Initiatives: NGOs like SEUF (Socio-Economic Unit Foundation) work on water quality awareness and rural testing projects.

6. Water Quality Awareness in Rural Areas

Many rural regions in India lack access to consistent water quality monitoring. Government initiatives like the Jal Jeevan Mission aim to provide piped drinking water to every household, but challenges remain. NGOs, community testing programs, and local self-governments play a critical role in bridging this gap.

Solutions for Ensuring Safe Water in Trivandrum and Kerala

If you’re concerned about your water’s safety, consider the following solutions:

a. For Municipal Water Users

• 1. Install Filtration Systems: Use filters equipped with UV, RO, or activated carbon to tackle contaminants based on your water test results.
• 2. Regular Tank Cleaning: Ensure overhead water tanks are cleaned quarterly to prevent bacterial growth.
• 3. Boiling Water: Boil water for at least 10 minutes to kill microbes before consumption.

b. For Groundwater and Well Users

1. Periodic Testing: Test water annually for microbiological and chemical contaminants.

2. Iron Removal Systems: Install filters to remove excess iron and manganese if detected.

3. Rainwater Harvesting Maintenance: Use first-flush systems to divert initial runoff and clean tanks regularly.

c. For Apartments and Gated Communities

1. Centralized Filtration: Invest in community-level filtration systems for shared water sources.

2. Water Audits: Conduct regular water quality audits and share findings with residents.

Addressing Broader Challenges in Kerala

a. Strengthening Infrastructure: The Kerala Water Authority must modernize pipelines and expand treatment facilities to meet growing urban demands. Projects like the Jal Jeevan Mission aim to improve water accessibility and quality, especially in rural areas.

b. Promoting Public Awareness: Community education campaigns about water testing and purification can empower residents to take charge of their water safety.

c. Tackling Pollution at the Source: Stricter regulations on industrial discharge and agricultural runoff are critical to reducing contamination in Kerala’s water bodies.

7. The Bottom Line

In Kerala, where water resources are abundant yet vulnerable, ensuring drinking water safety requires collaboration between government authorities, local communities, and individuals. Trivandrum, as the state capital, must lead by example by prioritizing infrastructure upgrades, promoting water conservation, and addressing pollution at its roots. By staying informed about water quality reports, conducting regular tests, and investing in proper purification systems, you can safeguard your health and contribute to a broader movement for clean, safe water. Safe water is not just a personal priority—it’s a collective responsibility.