Water Quality Under Scanner in Rajkot: Bacteria Found at 7 Locations, Concerns Over Municipal Supply

Rajkot Water Contamination: Bacteria Found in Municipal Supply at 7 Locations

Serious concerns have emerged over the quality of drinking water in Rajkot after recent testing revealed bacterial contamination in multiple areas. Despite claims by the Rajkot Municipal Corporation (RMC) of supplying clean and chlorinated water across all 18 wards, the latest report paints a troubling picture.

According to data from March, the municipal corporation collected a total of 8,901 water samples across the West, Central, and East Zones. These included 8,577 samples for residual chlorine, 295 for bacteriological testing, and 29 for chemical analysis.

During bacteriological testing, contamination was detected at seven locations. In the West Zone, bacteria were found in 5 out of 149 samples, while in the Central Zone, 2 samples failed quality standards. These findings indicate that water supplied through pipelines in these areas is not safe for drinking, triggering concern among residents.

The situation is particularly alarming given the ongoing summer season, when the risk of waterborne diseases rises significantly. Experts warn that pipeline leakages, poor maintenance of filtration systems, or inadequate chlorination could be contributing factors. If not addressed promptly, contaminated water could lead to outbreaks of illnesses such as diarrhea and typhoid.

Officials from the municipal corporation’s Water Works Department have stated that immediate investigations are underway in the affected areas. Repair work on damaged pipelines has been initiated, and instructions have been issued to increase chlorination levels at all pumping stations. Authorities have also assured that re-sampling will be conducted in the coming days to ensure water quality is restored.

Residents, however, have expressed dissatisfaction, alleging that complaints regarding dirty and foul-smelling water have been ignored for a long time. Many claim that irregular cleaning of filtration plants and pumping stations has contributed to the current situation.

The issue has gained further attention as the city is currently in an election phase with the model code of conduct in place. Citizens have raised questions about the lack of transparency, especially as the municipal body has reportedly halted the release of weekly epidemic data.

With a large population dependent on municipal water supply, the detection of bacteria in multiple locations has sparked fears of a potential public health crisis. Swift and effective action by authorities will be crucial to restore public confidence and ensure safe drinking water for all.