Himalaya Harbinger, Rudrapur Bureau.
In a bid to ensure clean drinking water, the Jal Sansthan in US Nagar district headquarters, Rudrapur is set to upgrade its water testing procedures by adding two new parameters: Total Coliform and E. Coli (Escherichia coli). These will complement the existing 10 parameters currently analyzed in the Jal Sansthan laboratory. A microbiological testing machine has been procured for this purpose, with installation slated for completion once a new laboratory building is constructed. The new parameters will enable the detection of coliform bacteria, commonly found in soil and water contaminated by human or animal waste. While most Total Coliform bacteria are harmless, identifying E. Coli will help safeguard public health by addressing contamination sources promptly.
At present, water quality is evaluated for pH, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), turbidity, alkalinity, hardness, calcium, chloride, magnesium, odor, and color. The introduction of microbiological tests will enhance the detection of harmful bacteria, such as E. Coli, a subgroup of Total Coliform. “E. Coli presence indicates contamination by feces, posing serious health risks,” said Tarun Sharma, Executive Engineer of the Jal Sansthan.
The district currently has 16,524 water connections, including 4,363 in Rudrapur, 4,339 in Bazpur, 3,465 in Gadarpur, and 2,357 in Kichha. The department tests 350 water samples monthly to monitor quality. However, the current laboratory—a cramped room above the Jal Sansthan office—lacks adequate space to house modern equipment. A new laboratory building is under design, with preparations for a Detailed Project Report (DPR) underway.
“The microbiological testing machine has already arrived, and we are preparing to install it in the upcoming facility,” said Sharma. The upgraded lab will seek certification from the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL), ensuring the reliability of its results.
