Presence of coliform bacteria found in samples

KOCHI: Test results of water samples collected from DLF New Town apartment complex at Kakkanad on Tuesday has found presence of coliform bacteria in three of the samples. Results were announced by health minister Veena George on Thursday.
A total of 46 samples from various drinking water sources such as overhead tanks, borewells, domestic taps, wells, and tanker-supplied water were sent for testing.Preliminary examination of samples has also shown presence of the bacteria in 19 other samples. These samples will be tested further in the coming days.
“A detailed inspection report of the 19 samples is awaited,” said a health department official.
More than 400 residents of the high-rise building had fallen ill due to water contamination. Medical officer of public health at Kakkanad issued a notice to the flat association under Kerala Public Health Act 2023 and various Sections of IPC. The apartment complex houses a total of 4,095 residents across 15 towers.
Meanwhile, super-chlorination is being carried out under the supervision of health department officials at the apartment complex. So far, a survey has identified symptoms in 492 individuals.
The health department official said that two samples from two patients undergoing treatment have been sent to Regional Public Health Lab and NIV Alappuzha Unit for testing. Three more drinking water samples have been taken on Thursday for bacteriological analysis.
Meanwhile, medical camps have been organized by health department in collaboration with the General Hospital and private hospitals in Ernakulam to provide immediate medical assistance to those with symptoms.
The minister also said that from Thursday, specific water samples used in various apartment complexes will be tested twice daily to assess chlorine levels.