E. coli detected in 67% of water samples from flood-hit Pala region
A water assessment in areas along Kerala’s Meenachil river has detected E. coli in 67 per cent of samples collected from Pala and nearby local bodies. Researchers linked the contamination to recent flooding and recommended scientific chlorination and compulsory testing after floods, while beginning a year-long seasonal study.
E. coli bacteria were detected in 67 per cent of water samples collected from flood-affected areas in and around Pala, raising concerns about the safety of drinking-water sources. The assessment was conducted by the PG and Research Department of Zoology at Alphonsa College, Pala, in collaboration with local administrations.
Samples were collected from water bodies in Pala Municipality and the areas of Karoor, Bharananganam, Erattupetta, Poonjar, Mutholy and Kidangoor. Researchers examined nine physicochemical and microbiological parameters, including pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, alkalinity, chlorinity, total hardness, sulphate, faecal coliform and E. coli.
The report found that total dissolved solids and pH levels exceeded the normal permissible range in the samples tested. Researchers attributed the increase in bacterial contamination to the recent floods, which may have allowed contaminated surface water to enter local water sources. The assessment recommended scientific chlorination of water sources and mandatory water-quality testing after every flood.
The recommendations were shared with local stakeholders for follow-up action, and the report was handed over to Pala municipality at a function attended by Water Resources Minister Mons Joseph. The college has started a one-year pilot study to monitor seasonal changes in water quality during the pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon periods. The study is intended to provide a broader picture of how water conditions vary across the region.
Alphonsa College has also begun steps to convert its research laboratory into a certified facility. Efforts are under way to obtain recognition from the Kerala State Pollution Control Board. The findings identify contamination in the tested samples but do not state how many samples were analysed or whether individual water sources have been declared unsafe.
The recommended chlorination and testing measures are intended to support follow-up action in the flood-affected areas.
This independently written report is based on information supplied by the named publisher. Vertrix News has not independently verified the source report.