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Rural water supply and need for water quality assessment: a case study
G K Khadse1, S P Andey, M V Nanoti
1Geo-Environment Management Division, National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur 440 020.
Journal of Environmental Science & Engineering
|July 18, 2006
Summary
Water quality in Nagpur district villages is concerning, with high TDS, fluoride, and nitrate levels in many sources. Bacterial contamination (TC, FC, FS) is widespread, indicating significant public health risks.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Public Health
- Water Resource Management
Background:
- Surface and subsurface water quality is critical for rural communities.
- Assessing drinking water parameters ensures public health and safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze water quality in four villages in Nagpur district.
- To identify sources exceeding desirable and permissible limits for various parameters.
- To assess bacteriological contamination in drinking water sources.
Main Methods:
- Collection and analysis of surface and subsurface water samples.
- Measurement of physicochemical parameters: TDS, fluoride, nitrate, iron, hardness, chloride, magnesium.
- Bacteriological analysis for Total Coliforms (TC), Fecal Coliforms (FC), and Fecal Streptococci (FS).
Main Results:
- 36 out of 68 samples exceeded the desirable TDS limit (500 mg/l); one exceeded 2000 mg/l.
- Elevated fluoride, nitrate, iron, and hardness levels were detected in multiple sources.
- Arsenic and pesticides were within safe limits; trace metals were acceptable.
- 71% of sources tested positive for TC, with high percentages for FC (94%) and FS (79%).
Conclusions:
- Significant portions of water sources in Nagpur villages do not meet drinking water standards.
- Bacteriological contamination is a major concern, increasing from source to use.
- Urgent interventions are needed to improve water quality and mitigate health risks.
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