Around 25% of water samples collected from wells in the flood-hit regions of Ernakulam have been found highly contaminated in a study conducted by the School of Environmental Studies at Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat).
“Of the 172 wells from which samples were taken, 43 were found contaminated with faecal coliform.
Dr. Achari said that the total coliform count should be 50 or less per 100 ml in water found fit for consumption, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) norms.
Of the 172 wells from which samples were collected, three wells were found having water with a total coliform organism count higher than 50 MPN and below 1,100 in 100 ml, while nine wells had coliform content in the range of 1,100.
It also has to be boiled before use.
The total coliform count in water collected from 47 wells was below 50, while there was no coliform presence in 11 wells.
Researchers at the school have already received around 500 samples from the flood-hit regions in Ernakulam.
It could also have been caused by the presence of slaughter waste dumping sites, chemical factories, and chemical storage facilities near drinking water sources.
Samples could be collected after a week to confirm whether the total coliform presence has come to 50 or less in 100 ml, they added.
Extension of service Dr. Achari said that the water testing facility at the school could be used for carrying out sample analysis of drinking water from drinking water sources across the State.