Kochi: The level of turbidity, the condition that makes water muddy, in Periyar water has lowered over half by Sunday evening compared to the previous day as the Kerala Water Authority (KWA) is planning to resume full scale pumping from Aluva treatment plant by Monday.
"Turbidity has decreased to 92-108 (nephelometric turbidity units) by Sunday evening as compared to 275-200 ntu a day earlier. If the turbidity level continues to fall, we'll start full scale pumping by today night itself. We're now hopeful to resume normal pumping operations by Monday," said Anil Augustine, Assistant Executive Engineer, KWA.The normal turbidity level is 10 to 20 ntu which further reduces to below five after treatment.
The Periyar was in spate since last Thursday following water release from Idukki and Edamalayar dams, resulting in sharp increase in the turbidity level. The KWA was forced to cut potable water supply one-third of the total installed capacity, affecting areas like Aluva, Kalamassery, Trikkakara, Eloor and Varappuzha.
The normal supply from Aluva is 250 to 290 MLD to greater Kochi areas. The officials are monitoring the situation closely after the fourth shutter of Edamalayar dam was also opened on Sunday evening with the water level reaching 168.92 metres.
