High Bacterial Levels in Godavari Pose Health Risk

Pollution control officials say the contamination levels in Godavari river are alarmingly high and devotees should take medical assistance to avoid health problems

RAJAHMUNDRY:With lakhs of pilgrims taking a holy dip in the Godavari, a new threat is emerging from its water.

According to experts, T-Coli (Total Coliform bacteria) levels are alarmingly high in the river water even before the puskharams commenced and they believe that  the endless stream of pilgrims doing their ablutions would further increase the contamination levels. The government expects more than 2 crore people to take a dip in the river during the 12-day event. Doctors advise people to take proper precautions to avoid bacterial infections.

Pollution control officials say T-Coli (Total Coliform bacteria) levels are alarmingly high at all the ghats in East and West Godavari districts. Unless those who take the bath take medical help, they might experience health problems ranging from diarrhoea to vomiting and even fever.

The Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) which conducted a sample survey found that on July 8 this year, T-Coli levels were 10,600 colonies per 100 ml at Goshpada Kshetram in Kovvuru of West Godavari district. Similarly, the T-Coli levels at Valandhar Revu in Narasapuram of West Godavari and at the Pushkar Ghat in Rajahmundry were recorded at 8,500 colonies per 100 ml and 8,400 colonies per 100 ml respectively.

The standard level of T-Coli in water should be only 500 colonies per 100 ml. Fortunately, the Dissolved Oxygen and the Biochemical Oxygen Demand are at adequate levels.

“The presence of T Coli bacteria in large numbers indicate contamination by sewage flowing into the river, human activity and cattle wading,” the survey pointed out. The APPCB is conducting the study into the pollution levels in Godavari river at three stages - before, during and after the Godavari Pushkarams.

On condition of anonymity, a PCB official said that the contamination levels are high and pilgrims should take medical assistance to avoid health problems. “Due to heavy rush, pollution levels are bound to increase. We are also examining other contamination levels including the E-Coli levels and the results are expected in a couple of days for Day One of the Pushkarams,” he added.

The T-Coli are a group of closely related bacteria which are common inhabitants of water and are mostly not harmful to humans. The T-Coli include bacteria that are found in the soil, surface water, and human or animal waste. However, a few forms of T-Coli bacteria will lead to health problems which may include diarrhoea, cramps, nausea and vomiting.

The health officials have advised the pilgrims to approach the nearest medical camp and obtain vaccination to avoid any health problems.

“We are aware of the problems caused by the presence of T-Coli in Godavari river. Besides health problems like diarrhoea, cramps, nausea and vomiting, it could also cause skin allergies. Hence, we have already advised pilgrims against using Godavari water for drinking purpose while performing rituals on the river banks. They are also advised to take a fresh bath after returning home,” said Dr MVR Murthy, medical officer at the Municipal Corporation of Rajahmundry.