BMC claims only 3% water unfit

If you are one of the residents who has complained about the BMC's water supply being contaminated, think again. According to the civic body's latest Environment Status Report (ESR) 2016-17, only three percent of the collected samples from all 24 administrative wards and 27 service reservoirs was found unfit for consumption.

This fares better than last year's samples wherein four percent of the water was found contaminated and in 2014-15, it was worse at 4.4 percent.

The report says that the R-South ward of Kandivli supplied the cleanest water during this period, as no contamination was found in the water samples analysed. Ironically, the maximum contamination, standing at nine percent, was in the upmarket A-ward which comprises Colaba, Churchgate and CST. This was followed by T-ward (Mulund) at 7 percent and F-South (Parel, Sewree and Dadar) and H-West (Bandra) with 6 percent of unfit water samples.

The BMC supplies 3,750 million litres of water to Mumbai city and suburban areas daily. Of this, around 2,100 MLD is treated at Bhandup Complex while the remaining is treated at the source.

"Everyday, around 200-250 water samples from 24 wards and 27 service reservoirs are analysed. During monsoons or in emergency, that number goes up to 300-350. Bacteriological analysis is done to meet the standards prescribed for drinking water," stated in the ESR 2016-17.

According to an official from the Water Hydraulic Department of BMC, the water analysis is carried out as per WHO guidelines. "By using this technique, water quality indicator bacteria like coliform and E. coli are tested for, as water intended for drinking should be free from them. After testing, the results have to be obtained within a day and sent to the medical health officer of all wards within 24 hours. Following this, remedial measures can be taken if water samples turn out to be unfit for consumption," added the official.

STANDARD TESTING

• Every day, around 200-250 water samples for 24 wards are analysed
   
• During monsoons and in emergency, that number goes up to 300-350
   
• Bacteriological analysis is done to meet the standards prescribed by WHO
   
• Water should be free of E. Coli and coliform