City sees red over yellow water

Corporators demanded a thorough explanation from BMC officials about the reason behind the yellowish tinge in the water and asked how they could be so sure that the water is safe for consumption.

The BMC had issued a statement that since December 21 they have been drawing large quantities of water from Upper Vaitarna dam,which has algae and natural vegetation in the water. It further stated that to treat this water,the amount of chlorine has been increased,which oxidizes with water and forms Ferric hydroxide — which is yellow in colour. The BMC reiterated that the water had been tested and found fit for consumption.

However,corporators demanded a better explanation. Shiv Sena leader Sunil Prabhu questioned where the water samples had been tested. “If the water has been tested,which lab has it been tested and certified from? Is there any effect on human health if the intake of chlorine is increased? Instances of dysentery are on the rise in many areas. Is there is correlation between the two issues?” asked Prabhu.

Congress MLA and corporator Rajhans Singh said the BMC had been callous in its approach and had not done enough to solve the issue.

However,officials from the hydraulic engineering department maintained their stand that the chemical reaction was the only reason behind the coloured water. Additional Municipal Commissioner Manisha Mhaiskar said,“The release from Upper Vaitarna will be stopped with immediate effect and the water will be back to its normal colour within the next 3-4 days. There is no need for the citizens to panic.”