ASSESSMENT OF MICROBIAL POLLUTION IN DRINKING WATER IN AND AROUND PUNE CITY, MAHARASHTRA, INDIAPATWARDHAN R.B., ABHYANKAR P.S. AND AMBADE S.V.Abstract The quality of drinking water and treatment of waterborne diseases are crucial public health problems. Bacterial contamination of potable water resources is the most recurrent health hazard. The present investigation reveals bacteriological evaluation of drinking water sources in and around Pune City, Maharashtra, India. Residential areas of Pune get their drinking water supply from various sources like treated water from corporation purification plant, bore wells, hand pumps, wells etc. A total of 240 water samples were collected from different areas. The areas covered were from Kothrud to Aundh, Pashan to Katraj, Bhosari, Pimpri, Nigdi and the central Pune city. A questionnaire was prepared to collect information regarding source of drinking water, purification method performed, storage of water, and any infection experienced due to drinking water. About 80% samples showed presence of coliforms up to 1800 coliforms/100 mL. Since the total coliforms test is a primary indicator of POTABILITY, i.e. suitability of drinking water for consumption, the results indicate that the drinking water available in and around Pune city is not at all safe for human health. 38% of the drinking water samples examined on a single water supply line showed presence of coliforms which indicate that the water has got contaminated somewhere in the piped drinking-water distribution system. Fecal coliforms indicated water contaminated with animal or human waste, i.e. feces in many samples. Since faecal coliforms have been examined in filtered drinking water samples efficiency of domestic filters is also questionable with regard to killing of coliforms. Most of the samples taken from proper Pune city showed presence of less coliforms. So, in the present research it is concluded that the potable water in Pune is contaminated with pathogenic microorganisms and is unfit for drinking. |