In an effort to reinforce public trust in the city’s drinking water system and strengthen monitoring mechanisms, the Guwahati Jal Board has initiated a comprehensive water quality testing drive across all District Metered Areas (DMAs) in its South-Central zone.
The initiative follows a recent water contamination incident reported from Indore, which prompted water authorities to intensify vigilance and adopt additional preventive measures. District Metered Areas are defined zones where water supply is closely monitored through metering systems to regulate flow, detect losses, and ensure efficient distribution.
At present, the South-Central zone consists of 100 DMAs, collectively serving around 53,000 households. Under the special drive, household-level water quality testing is being carried out by trained Jal Sakhis in coordination with DMA engineers. Officials said the Jal Sakhis have received proper training in standard testing protocols and the use of water testing kits, enabling them to conduct accurate assessments under technical supervision.
The primary objective of the exercise is to enhance real-time monitoring and facilitate early identification of any potential water quality concerns. Authorities noted that testing water at the household level provides a more accurate picture of the quality of water actually consumed by residents, allowing for quicker and more targeted interventions if required.
According to officials, random sampling will be conducted in each DMA, covering approximately 10 to 12 households. The tests will assess key parameters such as pH value, total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity, and bacteriological quality. Additionally, water samples from every DMA will be sent to laboratories for detailed analysis, with reports expected within five to six days. The results will be placed in the public domain to maintain transparency.
Reiterating its commitment to public health and safety, the Guwahati Jal Board stated that the enhanced monitoring drive reflects its continued focus on ensuring the supply of safe, clean, and reliable drinking water to the city’s residents.
