The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) is set to undertake an extensive water quality testing campaign on August 4. This initiative will see the collection and analysis of 1,000 water samples from various sources across the city.
The drive aims to preemptively address and mitigate the risks of waterborne diseases, which often surge during the monsoon season. The monsoon period is notorious for increasing the incidence of waterborne illnesses such as diarrhoea, vomiting, and fever, primarily caused by E.coli bacteria. These symptoms are indicative of water contamination from sewage or animal waste. Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde, who is overseeing the campaign, highlighted the importance of this special testing drive.
“Our regular protocol involves daily collection of around 100 water samples. While this routine monitoring covers specific points, it is crucial to broaden our sampling to ensure city-wide water safety. The aim is to ensure that all areas within the city have potable water, thus preventing potential health hazards,” Shinde remarked. The campaign will see civic officials visiting a diverse range of locations, including residential households, commercial establishments, educational institutions, and slum areas. Additionally, samples will be collected from primary water pipelines to ensure comprehensive coverage.
The initial collection drive is scheduled for August 4, with at least two drives planned over the next two weeks. The frequency of these drives may be extended based on the findings related to water quality and potability. The water samples will be tested for several parameters including pH value, turbidity, total dissolved solids, and residual chlorine. In tandem with these efforts, the water level at the Morbe Dam, Navi Mumbai’s principal water source, is approaching overflow. According to the latest data, the dam’s water level has risen to 84.67 metres, nearing its overflow threshold of 88 metres.
Following substantial rainfall of 2,700 mm in recent days, the dam’s storage capacity has increased by 90%. An additional 800 mm of rainfall is anticipated to bring the dam to overflow by August 15, further bolstering water supply in the city. The NMMC’s rigorous testing and monitoring activities underscore its commitment to maintaining high standards of public health and water quality, especially during the vulnerable monsoon season.
