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Telangana Rivers: Coliform Levels Soar Dangerously
16 Jun
Summary
- Total coliform levels in Krishna river nearly 20 times higher than standard.
- Faecal coliform bacteria levels are five times higher than prescribed norms.
- Untreated wastewater discharge and industrial pollution are major causes.
Water quality in Telangana's major rivers, Krishna and Godavari, has significantly worsened, with bacterial contamination far exceeding safety standards. Central Water Commission data reveals total coliform levels in the Krishna River are nearly 20 times the permissible limit, reaching up to 16,000 MPN per 100 ml in some stretches. Faecal coliform levels are also alarmingly high, around five times the prescribed norms.
Recent studies highlight serious concerns regarding pollution in the Godavari basin, attributing it to untreated wastewater from regions like Ramagundam and Mancherial. Similarly, industrial pollution, particularly from pharmaceutical and chemical manufacturing units in the Krishna basin, has been identified as a major contributor. Experts point to rapid urbanization and inadequate sewage treatment infrastructure failing to keep pace with growing populations as primary drivers of this escalating crisis.
