Kochi: The Water Institute at SCMS School of Engineering and Technology here has identified high level of iron and nitrate in borewells in the corporation limits.
During a water audit conducted, it was found that all open wells have the presence of coliform bacteria.
All open wells and borewells in the 74 corporation divisions were inspected during the water audit conducted as part of formulating a water policy for the city.
The analysis indicated that 24 per cent of borewells in the city contain very high level of nitrate while in more than 50 divisions the presence of iron in water is higher than the permissible level.
The seepage of contaminated water into the groundwater is a major reason for the high level of pollutants. Among the groundwater samples collected, 20 per cent had saline content.
This happens when the brackish backwater gets mixed into groundwater.
“Intrusion of brackish water can be prevented by redirecting rainwater from the rooftop to the well. This will create a reserve area of good water around the well ensuring good water round the year,” experts at the Water Institute said.
Since groundwater samples also have the presence of coliform bacteria, it is advisable to boil borewell water before use.
The students of environmental engineering conducted the auditing with the support of trained Kudumbasree mission workers.
A survey on the water use pattern is progressing. Based on the quality audit and water use patterns, the water policy will be formulated.
