Home / Environment / Kadambrayar River Chokes on Sewage: Pollution Levels Soar
Kadambrayar River Chokes on Sewage: Pollution Levels Soar
17 Sep
Summary
- High levels of total and faecal coliform found in Kadambrayar River samples.
- Dissolved oxygen levels below bathing water standards at all sites.
- Untreated sewage discharge is the primary cause of river pollution.
Water samples from the Kadambrayar River in Ernakulam, Keralam, show severe pollution. Tests conducted on August 29, 2026, revealed high levels of total and faecal coliforms across multiple sampling points. Crucially, dissolved oxygen levels did not meet the minimum requirement for bathing water quality at any monitored location. The Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) also exceeded permissible limits at Manakkakadavu, indicating substantial organic and potential sewage contamination.
These findings, confirmed by laboratory tests between August 29 and September 5, 2026, were submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on September 9, 2026. The NGT had previously requested action following a report highlighting persistent fecal contamination. Officials attribute the spike in coliforms to the discharge of untreated sewage and are directing local bodies, including Kochi Corporation and Thrikkakara municipality, to address wastewater treatment shortcomings and penalize violators as per the Kadambrayar River Action Plan.
