KOCHI: The turbidity level in the drinking water supplied to the city and outskirts from the Kerala Water Authority’s Aluva pump house is higher than permissible norms. As the stock of lime at the pump house has depleted, water is being treated only with alum (Aluminium sulfate). Though the permissible level of turbidity in treated water is 5 NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Units), the water now being supplied to the city contains 7 to 8 NTU, admit employees of the KWA. KWA also had to cut the quantity of water being supplied to west Kochi areas. Only 120 MLD water is being pumped from the plant as against the normal 130 MLD.
According to sources at the KWA pump house, it is the unholy nexus between the top officials and contractors supplying lime which has led to the crisis situation. “For several years, sub-standard quality lime has been used for water treatment at the pump houses which come under the Aluva division. Though the sample is sent for testing to the government analytical lab during every purchase, the stock is completely used before the test result comes. It takes more than a week to get the test result and meanwhile, the poor quality lime is used during that time,” said an employee.
“The contractors supplying the raw materials grease top officials’ palms to sell their poor quality products. The employees are aware of the corruption and we have already approached the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau seeking its immediate intervention,” sources added. Meanwhile, KWA executive engineer at the pump house told DC that water supply had to be cut due to high turbidity levels in river water. “Due to high turbidity, it takes more time to treat the water. Hence supply has to be reduced by nearly 10 MLD,” the official said.
