2025-02-27

A recent study conducted by the TIES has raised alarms about the quality of water in the Meenachil River, a major drinking-water source in the Kottayam district. The study, which involved collecting water samples from 14 locations from Meladukkam to Malarickal, revealed a high presence of fecal coliform bacteria, including E. coli, posing a significant risk to public health.

Meenachil River: A Vital Water Source

Originating in the Western Ghats, the Meenachil River is a crucial waterway in Kottayam district. Spanning 78 kilometers in length, it has a catchment area of 1,272 square kilometers. The river, sometimes referred to as Kavanar, branches into several tributaries before flowing into Vembanad Lake.

Findings of the Study

The investigation found that in all locations except Meladukkam, E. coli levels exceeded 10 lakhs units per liter of water, while the permissible limit is 0 units per 100 ml. The study analyzed 21 environmental parameters, indicating that pollution levels were especially severe in areas closer to discharge points and urban settlements.

The discharge of untreated domestic and commercial waste into the river was identified as a key contributor to this alarming trend. The presence of oil and organic waste has further exacerbated the situation by creating conditions conducive to pathogen growth. Additionally, a significant decrease in dissolved oxygen levels was noted, putting aquatic life at risk. The study also reveals that the Biological Oxygen Demand of the river is considerably increasing, which is imposing threat to aquatic organisms and indicates the presence of high organic matter, waste water intrusion, oil and grease contamination, higher water temperature, etc in the water. 

Concerns Over Drinking Water Quality

With Meenachil River serving as the primary water source for over 100 drinking-water projects and distribution centers, the contamination poses a grave threat to thousands of residents. The study also found that water collected for supply often contains high levels of sand and organic matter due to improper filtering mechanisms.

Dr. Punnan Kurian, Director of TIES, emphasized the urgent need for action, stating, “We have been conducting annual water studies for the past 10 years, and the rising pollution levels are alarming. Immediate steps must be taken to reduce the contamination, including improved waste disposal and stringent regulations on industrial and domestic waste discharge.”

Recommended Actions

TIES has recommended the following measures to address the issue:

• Implementing improved waste management strategies to prevent untreated sewage from entering the river.

• Regular water quality monitoring, with results published monthly to raise public awareness.

• Strengthening filtering mechanisms in water supply projects to remove harmful contaminants.

• Immediate intervention by authorities to regulate waste disposal in critical pollution zones.

The study was led by Dr. Punnen Kurian, Ms. Anju Ajikumar, Ms. Arya Shaji and Sarath Babu N.B. from TIES.