Ganderbal, January 29, 2025: In a recent health safety initiative, the Jal Shakti (PHE) Rural Water Supply Division of Ganderbal/Srinagar has discovered alarming levels of bacterial contamination in water sources across the district.
After conducting an extensive drive to collect and test water samples from various springs throughout Ganderbal, officials found that 37 out of 40 samples were bacteriologically positive, making these water sources unfit for human consumption.
The testing was part of a routine inspection to ensure the quality of water being used by locals, particularly in rural areas of Ganderbal and Srinagar where many rely on spring water for drinking purposes.
In light of the results, the public has been advised to cease using spring water for drinking, and instead, rely on tap water until further notice
The instructions have called for immediate compliance with the directive to ensure public health and safety. The Rural Water Supply Division has made it clear that the tap water system remains safe for consumption, providing a reliable alternative to the contaminated spring water.
For those who still wish to use spring water, the directive advises boiling it thoroughly or treating it with appropriate purification methods to eliminate harmful bacteria. However, this is only recommended as a last resort until the contamination issue is resolved.
The PHE Department has assured the public that corrective measures will be implemented to address the contamination, but it is unclear how long it will take for the affected springs to meet safety standards again. In the meantime, residents are urged to stay vigilant and follow the public health advisory to prevent potential waterborne diseases.
This development serves as a reminder of the importance of proper water testing and the need for safe, clean drinking water in rural areas. Local authorities are expected to provide further updates on the situation as investigations continue.
