Amid rising concerns about turbid water supply, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued a precautionary advisory to residents of Mumbai. Citizens are urged to filter and boil their water before consumption to ensure safety. This advisory follows multiple complaints regarding turbid water from various areas in the eastern suburbs and the island city.
The BMC attributes the turbidity issue to the recent heavy rainfall in the catchment area of the Bhatsa reservoir, which has led to increased turbidity in the river channel and a subsequent decline in water quality.
“The Hydraulic Engineering Department is actively working to address this issue by implementing necessary measures at the water treatment plant to lower turbidity levels,” stated the BMC in a press release. “In addition, we are ensuring adequate chlorine treatment to maintain the water’s cleanliness and safety for consumption.”
Turbidity refers to the cloudiness or haziness of water caused by suspended particles such as sediment, plankton, or organic matter. As turbidity increases, the water becomes denser and less clear due to a higher concentration of these particles.
Mumbai’s water supply primarily comes from seven lakes, including the essential Bhatsa reservoir. The recent heavy rains affecting Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, and surrounding areas have significantly impacted the city’s water quality.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Thane and Palghar districts, predicting heavy rainfall on Sunday. An orange alert was also announced for Raigad, while a yellow alert was in effect for several districts, including Mumbai, on October 20 and 22. The IMD linked the heavy rainfall to a low-pressure area, cyclonic circulation, and a trough over the Arabian Sea.
“The interaction between the easterlies and westerlies is causing the rain,” explained an IMD official. “We expect the rainfall in Mumbai to stop after this period.” The BMC is committed to ensuring a safe and clean water supply for Mumbai residents and will continue to monitor the situation closely, providing updates and advisories as necessary.
