Spike in faecal contamination levels in Kadambrayar

The PCB analysis has found the total coliform count at 34,000 MPN per 100 ml along the Brahmapuram stretch of the Kadambrayar. | Photo Credit: THULASI KAKKAT

Faecal contamination has exceeded the maximum permissible limit along the Brahmapuram stretch of the Kadambrayar in Ernakulam.

While the maximum permissible limit for bathing water, as prescribed by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), is less than 2,500 MPN (most probable number) per 100 ml, the total coliform count along the Brahmapuram stretch was 34,000 MPN per 100 ml in samples collected in March 2025, according to an analysis by the Kerala State Pollution Control Board (PCB).

In February, the corresponding count was 5,400 MPN per 100 ml. The samples were collected as part of preparing the pollution status report on rivers for submission to the Ministry of Jal Shakti. The spike in total coliform levels indicated the unchecked discharge of sewage from households and commercial establishments along both sides of the waterbody.

A report submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) by the Department of Environment in March 2025 had said that pollution in the Kadambrayar was caused by the discharge of domestic effluents from townships and households through drains and creeks leading to the waterbody. The report added that leachate discharge, if any, from the Brahmapuram plant and flow restrictions caused by the growth of water hyacinths had further worsened the pollution.

The faecal coliform count along the Brahmapuram stretch of the Kadambrayar in March 2025 was 20,000 MPN per 100 ml. The faecal streptococci level had also exceeded the permissible limit on multiple occasions in the same stretch. It was recorded at 1,200 MPN per 100 ml, against the maximum of 500 MPN per 100 ml prescribed by the CPCB.

In a report submitted before the NGT in April 2025, the PCB had said that the water quality in Kadambrayar could be improved only after the implementation of major projects, including the installation of sewage treatment plants and solid waste processing units.

Published - June 20, 2025 01:08 am IST