Fri Apr 25 20:37:21 UTC 2025: ## Kerala Rivers Show High Levels of Fecal Contamination
**KOCHI, April 26, 2025** – Water samples from several stretches of the Kadambrayar and Chitrapuzha rivers in Ernakulam, Kerala, reveal alarming levels of fecal contamination. According to a report submitted to the Ministry of Jal Shakthi by the Kerala State Pollution Control Board (PCB), total coliform counts significantly exceeded the maximum permissible limits set by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in February 2025.
The Brahmapuram stretch of the Kadambrayar river recorded a count of 5,400 MPN (most probable number) per 100 ml, while the Manakkakadavu stretch showed 2,700 MPN/100 ml. The Irumpanam stretch of the Chitrapuzha river had the highest count at 7,900 MPN/100 ml. The CPCB’s maximum permissible limit for bathing is less than 2,500 MPN/100 ml.
The Kerala State Pollution Control Board attributes the pollution to untreated domestic sewage discharged into the rivers, exacerbated by leachate from the Brahmapuram plant and the growth of water hyacinths. A separate report submitted to the National Green Tribunal indicates that an action plan is underway to address the issue, including the implementation of sewage treatment plants and penalties for violations of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act. The findings are based on the CPCB’s National Water Quality Monitoring Programme, which regularly collects samples from these locations.
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