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Kochi Eateries Serve Contaminated Water
7 Sep
Summary
- Coliform bacteria detected in Kochi eateries pose health risks.
- Water samples showed high levels of E. coli and coliform.
- Inspections revealed contamination in tap, bottled, and filter water.
Health authorities in Kochi have identified significant contamination in water used by eateries, raising serious health concerns. Recent inspections, conducted over the last two months by joint teams from the Health, Kochi Corporation, Food Safety departments, and police, have revealed alarming levels of coliform bacteria in water samples.
The Most Probable Number (MPN) of coliform bacteria ranged from 17 to 1,600 per 100 ml, while E. coli was detected at 280 per 100 ml in many samples. Experts emphasize that these high levels indicate faecal contamination and make the water unsafe for human consumption. Contaminated water sources were identified in sumps at various establishments, affecting tap water, bottled water, ice cubes, and filter water.
These findings contrast with previous checks by the Kerala Water Authority, which had detected residual chlorine, suggesting uncontaminated water. Officials are calling for regular inspections of water bottling and processing units, especially local producers, to ensure the quality of packaged drinking water and prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
