Drinking water quality analysis of Rawalpindi city (P-0766) (MFN 3003)

Abstract

The project “DRINKING WATER QUALITY ANALYSIS OF RAWALPINDI CITY” was carried out from April 2010 to July 2010 for recent monitoring of drinking water supply system of selected areas of Rawalpindi, keeping in view the recent National and International quality standards on the subject. Samples were randomly collected from different RDA water filteration plants and tap water in Westridge, Chaklala, D-block Satellite town, Kurri road and Pirwadhae area. A standard method for sample collection was followed and, in each case, two different plastic bottles were used for bacteriological, physical and chemical parameters. These samples were then analyzed using reliable analytical procedures available in ASTM and adopted by PCRWR. The analytical data has been compiled. Results of all the parameters have been individually depicted in different figures and have been discussed. Almost half of the samples were found to be contaminated with respect to the coliform and fecal coliform bacteria, making it unsuitable for drinking. However, detail studies should be conducted to know the cause of bacteriological contamination. The results regarding the physical and chemical parameters were found within the recommended National and International guidelines for drinking water. It is further recommended to undertake further studies over a wider area in order to elucidate the relationship between the underground hydrology and parameters important with respect to the water quality.