After erratic supply, Delhi residents flag alarming water contamination

Samad Hoque

New Delhi, July 16

After grappling with the problem of erratic or non-existent water supply, residents in several parts of Delhi are now facing the challenge of impure water from the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) channels.

Areas such as Dwarka and Kalkaji have reported an alarming rise in total dissolved solids (TDS) — a measure of water quality — since May, yet residents have not received any response from the officials concerned.

In a complaint sent by Dwarka residents on May 13, one individual noted a TDS level exceeding 600 in the water supplied to their home. With levels surpassing this threshold, residents raised concerns about potential health issues, especially since the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends a maximum of 300 parts per million (ppm).

Enquiries by The Tribune regarding water quality did not yield substantial information, as DJB officials stated that water samples are frequently tested for quality.

Residents reported facing water supply issues since 2022; previously receiving water twice a day, they now receive it only once. Priya Changra, a Dwarka resident who moved to the area three months ago, noted that TDS levels had risen from 245 to 620 since June. “The water tastes bitter, and a white foamy layer is visible. Concerned for our health, we started buying Bisleri cans, but that became too expensive. We switched to an RO purifier that brings the TDS down to a maximum of 200,” she explained.

To avoid health issues, residents have resorted to using boiled and cooled water for washing their eyes in the morning, although this water has also shown a thin white film. A resident’s letter flagged high TDS readings from May 10-13, with values recorded at 619, 619, 622 and 615 ppm, respectively. Previously, in April, the TDS was recorded at 150-180 ppm, indicating a concerning rise.

Another Dwarka resident, Mahavir Yadav, reported that muddy water is supplied frequently. “After the breach at the Munak Canal, our water supply was halted. It resumed four days later, but only for 15-30 minutes, and the first three buckets are muddy. When we contact the Jal Board, they make excuses and dismiss our concerns,” he said.

Meanwhile, residents in Kalkaji also raised concerns about unclean water. “The water has a pungent smell that makes it seem like it has been mixed with sewer water,” said Rakesh.

Diarrhoea cases on rise

• Waterborne diseases, such as diarrhoea, have been increasing in the city
• According to the Health Management Information System, diarrhoea cases rose from 15,152 in 2022-23 to 20,393 in 2023-24
• Recently, 400 residents fell ill at a high-rise in Ghaziabad, complaining of diarrhoea, stomach ache and fever

Water tastes bitter

TDS levels have risen from 245 to 620 since June. The water tastes bitter and a white foamy layer is visible. We switched to an RO purifier that brings the TDS down to a maximum of 200. — Priya Changra, a Dwarka resident

The water has a pungent smell that makes it seem like it has been mixed with sewer water. — Rakesh, a Kalkaji resident