HYDERABAD: A significant rise in total dissolved solids (TDS) in the Indus River has raised concerns about the safety of drinking water supplied to residents of Hyderabad, Jamshoro and Kotri. Authorities have advised people in the three cities to avoid drinking river water amid concerns over its deteriorating quality.
According to reports, the engineer at Kotri Barrage has written to the Superintending Engineer of the Baghiaar Circle in Hyderabad, highlighting the worsening water quality and its potential implications for public health.
The letter stated that TDS levels in the Indus River increased from 660 milligrams per litre in September to 940 milligrams per litre on October 1, raising concerns about the growing concentration of dissolved substances in the water.
The report warned that consuming contaminated or unsafe water could increase the risk of kidney-related problems, hepatitis, skin disorders and gastrointestinal illnesses. It also cautioned that a failure to take timely corrective measures could turn the situation into a serious public health concern.
Calls to Stop Pollution from Manchar Lake and Matiari Sugar Mill
The Kotri Barrage engineer has also called for measures to prevent polluted water from Manchar Lake and the Matiari sugar mill from entering the Indus River.
The letter further recommended releasing additional freshwater from Sukkur Barrage towards Kotri to help improve water quality and reduce the concentration of dissolved substances.
Relevant authorities have been urged to take immediate action to control pollution, ensure regular water-quality testing and provide residents with access to safe drinking water.
