A water analysis report from civic-run BYL Nair Hospital has revealed severe drinking water contamination, with coliform and E. coli bacteria found in all five samples that were collected from various storage tanks.
The presence of these bacteria indicates faecal contamination. Since the report came out on February 20, the hospital authorities have started a chlorination process for the time being. The source of sewage leakage has also been identified and repairs are being carried out.
According to a source in the hospital, many patients and staff members complained of a foul smell emanating from the drinking water for the past week. The hospital authorities then informed the water department from E Ward, and a Disinfectant Sub Inspector (DSI) was called in to collect water samples. Tests carried out at a civic laboratory in Dadar revealed that the water collected from all five points was unsafe for drinking.
Health worry
The 1,424-bed hospital has more than 90% occupancy at any given point of time. Experts say that exposing already ailing patients, whose immunity is low, to contaminated water may cause dysentery, vomiting and other problems. “While such contamination may not cause immediate problems in healthy individuals, patients who are immunocompromised may react instantly,” said a doctor.
The hospital treated the contamination as a serious issue and acted soon after complaints came in, the doctor added.
Hospital dean Ramesh Bharmal said all necessary precautions have been taken. “The water is completely fine now,” he said
