Contamination Levels in Kerala Water Bodies

Summary of Water Quality Monitoring Report in Kerala

Water Quality Data:

• Locations: Monitoring points along the Kalamassery stretch of the Periyar and the Kadambrayar near Brahmapuram.
• Monitoring Period: January to November 2025.
• Authority: Data compiled by the Kerala State Pollution Control Board as part of the National Water Quality Monitoring Programme.

Contamination Levels:

• Total Coliform Levels:

  • Permissible Limit: < 2,500 MPN (Most Probable Number) per 100 ml (CPCB standard for bathing water).
  • Key Measurements:
    • February 2025: Brahmapuram - 5,400 MPN/100 ml; Manakkakadavu - 2,700 MPN/100 ml.
    • March 2025: Brahmapuram - 20,000 MPN/100 ml.
    • April 2025: Kalamassery - 5,800 MPN/100 ml.
    • August 2025: Brahmapuram - 7,000 MPN/100 ml.
    • Subsequent tests indicated persistent contamination levels exceeding permissible limits.

• Faecal Streptococci Levels: Exceeded permissible limit multiple times.

  • Permissible Limit: 500 MPN per 100 ml.
  • Records: 1,200 MPN/100 ml noted.

Causes of Pollution:

• Discharge of domestic effluents from townships and households through drains and creeks.
• Leachate discharge from the Brahmapuram plant.
• Flow restrictions caused by the growth of water hyacinths which exacerbated pollution levels.

Legal and Regulatory Context:

• Monitoring aligned with directives and standards set by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
• Report submitted to the National Green Tribunal in March 2025, highlighting ongoing environmental concerns and resulting water quality issues.

Key Takeaways:

• Environmental Impact: The situation reflects significant water quality degradation with repeated violations of CPCB standards for safe bathing water.
• Regulatory Oversight: Continuous monitoring and reporting to regulatory bodies are crucial for addressing and mitigating pollution, calling for prompt action from local authorities under environmental laws.
• Public Health Concern: The higher levels of coliform and streptococci indicate risks to public health for residents relying on these water sources, necessitating urgent intervention.

Conclusion:

The data underscores the urgent need for improved waste management practices and environmental oversight in Kerala to combat water pollution and protect public health.