Water Contamination: Way Forward

Water Contamination

Guru Arjan Dev Institute of Development Studies, Amritsar/Page 1

Water Water Water Water ContaminationContaminationContaminationContamination:::: Way ForwardWay ForwardWay ForwardWay Forward

Dr Gursharan Singh Kainth Director

Guru Arjan Dev Institute of Development Studies 14-Preet Avenue, Majitha Road PO Naushera, Amritsar 143008

Clean and plentiful water provides the foundation for prosperous communities. We rely on clean

water to survive, yet right now we are heading towards a water crisis. Changing climate patterns

are threatening lakes and rivers, and key sources that we tap for drinking water are being

overdrawn or tainted with pollution. Dirty water is the world's biggest health risk, and continues

to threaten both quality of life and public health in the global

village. When water from rain and melting snow runs off

roofs and roads into our rivers, it picks up toxic chemicals,

dirt, trash and disease-carrying organisms along the way.

Many of our water resources also lack basic protections,

making them vulnerable to pollution from factory farms,

industrial plants, and activities like fracking. This can lead to

drinking water contamination, habitat degradation and beach

closures. Despite the many existing pressures on our water resources, there are cost-effective

solutions that will allow us to transform our relationship with water. To address increasing water

scarcity this paper is an attempt to promote investments and policies that increase water use

efficiency and decrease water waste. There are several causes of water pollution in India.

However, five main causes are Urbanization; Industries; Agricultural runoff and improper

agricultural practices; Withdrawal of water and Religious and Social Practices.

Water pollution is a major environmental issue in India. The largest source of water pollution in

India is untreated sewage. Other sources of pollution include agricultural runoff and unregulated

small scale industry. Most rivers, closed most of the time due to improper design or poor

maintenance or lack of reliable electricity supply to operate the plants, together with absentee

employees and poor management. The waste water generated in these areas normally percolates

into the soil or evaporates. The uncollected wastes accumulate in the urban areas causing

unhygienic conditions and releasing pollutants that leach into surface and groundwater. The

deaths due to water pollution were attributed to five diseases -- acute diarrhoeal diseases, enteric

fever (typhoid), viral hepatitis, cholera and acute encephalitis. Of these, acute diarrhoeal disease

alone has claimed the major share of lives.

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WATERBORNE DISEASES

Waterborne diseases are those that are transmitted by drinking unhealthy water. Unfortunately,

they are a major cause of morbidity and mortality, especially in children in our country. About

20 per cent of the communicable diseases in India are waterborne. Poor sanitation, improper

storage of water and lack of proper waste disposal are the main causes of water contamination.

A recent report by the United Nations says that more than three million people in the world die

of water-related diseases due to contaminated water each year, including 1.2 million children. In

India, over one lakh people die of water-borne diseases annually. It is reported that groundwater

in one-third of India’s 600 districts is not fit for drinking as the concentration of fluoride, iron,

salinity and arsenic exceeds the tolerance levels. About 65 million people have been suffering

from fluorosis, a crippling disease due to high amount of fluoride and five million are suffering

from arsenicosis in West Bengal due to high amount of arsenic. A World Resources Report says:

about 70 per cent of India’s water supply is seriously polluted with sewage effluents. The UN

reported that India’s water quality is poor - it ranks 120th among the 122 nations in terms of

quality of water available to its citizens. Water-borne diseases like cholera, gastroenteritis,

diarrhoea erupt every year during summer and rainy seasons in India due to poor quality drinking

water supply and sanitation. Five most dangerous water related diseases that occur in India,

which are described as follows � Cholera: Cholera is a water related disease, and is diarrhoeal in nature. It can kill in

hours if left unattended. Cholera strikes when one ingests water that is infested with the

Vibrio Cholerae bacterium.

� Diarrhoea: Diarrhoeal infection is spread through food and drinking water that has

been contaminated. A diarrhoeal attack can last up to 2 weeks and leave the person

completely dehydrated.

� Malaria: Malarial fever is spread by the Plasmodium parasite mosquito that breeds in

water bodies like lakes, paddy fish and stagnant water. Malaria can kill a child who does

not have the immunity against malaria

� Typhoid: Fluctuating high fever, exhaustion, sleepiness, diarrhoea etc are the signs of

typhoid. The infection spreads through contaminated food and water or through close

contact with an infected person.

� Filariasis: Filariasis is a parasitic disease and affects people who live near unsanitary

water bodies or sewages. Filariasis is spread by mosquitoes that breeds in fresh and

stagnant water bodies and is the host of the filarial nematode worm. This worm affects

humans and leads to elephantitis.

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CAUSES OF WATER POLLUTION

Water pollution is caused due to several reasons. Few major causes of water pollution are:

Sewage and Waste Water: Sewage, garbage and liquid waste of households, agricultural

lands and factories are discharged into lakes and rivers. These wastes contain harmful chemicals

and toxins which make the water poisonous for aquatic animals and plants.

Dumping: Dumping of solid wastes and litters in water bodies causes huge problems. Litters

include glass, plastic, aluminum, Styrofoam etc. Different things take different amount of time to

degrade in water. They affect aquatic plants and animals.

Industrial Waste: Industrial waste contains pollutants like asbestos, lead, mercury and

petrochemicals which are extremely harmful to both people and environment. Industrial waste is

discharged into lakes and rivers by using fresh water making the water contaminated.

Oil Pollution: Sea water gets polluted due to oil spilled from ships and tankers while traveling.

The spilled oil does not dissolve in water and forms a thick sludge polluting the water.

Acid Rain: Acid rain is pollution of water caused by air pollution. When the acidic particles

caused by air pollution in the atmosphere mix with water vapor, it results in acid rain.

Global Warming: Due to global warming, there is an increase in water temperature. This

increase in temperature results in death of aquatic plants and animals. This also results in

bleaching of coral reefs in water.

Eutrophication: Eutrophication is an increased level of nutrients in water bodies. This results in

bloom of algae in water. It also depletes the oxygen in water, which negatively affects fish and

other aquatic animal population.

TREATING POLLUTED WATER

It is very important to prevent the polluting of water bodies and remove existing contaminants or

reducing the concentration of these contaminants so as to make it fit for desired use. Following

are some of the ways of treating polluted water:

Industrial Treatment: The raw sewage is needed to be treated correctly in a water treatment

plant before it can be safely released into the environment. To reduce the amount and toxicity of

waste, it is passed through a number of chambers and chemical processes in water treatment

plant.

Denitrification: Conversion of nitrates in gas is called Denitrification. It is an ecological

approach to prevent leaching of nitrates in soil. It stops ground water from getting contaminated.

Ozone Waste Water Treatment: Ozone waste water treatment method is becoming very popular.

In this method, the pollutants in water are broken down by an ozone generator. Ozone oxidizes

bacteria, molds, organic material and other pollutants in water.

Septic Tanks: Septic tanks are used to treat sewage at the place of location instead of treating it

in any plant or sewage system. This system is used at the individual building level. The sewage

is separated into solid and liquid components and treated separately.

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CONTROL OF BIOFILMS:

Biofilm in water systems consists of a growing substance of bacteria surrounded with a self-

generated slime layer that attaches to the inside of pipes, sprinklers, drippers, nozzles, sieves,

valves, storage tanks, etc. Combined with other organic and mineral pollution it becomes

difficult to remove inside layer, which is known as the notorious biofilm. Without treatments a

biofilm will exist in all water systems. It causes clogging of water system and biofilm give the

possibility to plant pathogens to hide themselves. Also non pathogen and micro organisms

contribute to the growth of bio-films. Besides clogging problems, a biofilm gives also a hidden

place for plant pathogenic bacteria, fungi and viruses. Via water supply these pathogens can

attack plants and their roots.

No doubt, disinfectants obviously control biofilm growth, but increased dose pose health

problems too. In addition, unpleasant taste and odour are results of increased dosing. The

question arises: What are other methods to control biofilm growth? Some studies say biofilm

growth improves the efficiency of systems by reducing pipe roughness initially; however it

increases when pipes are old. What is the better cheaper method to clean biofilm from older

pipes? Simply by adding the Archaea (also called archaebacterium) species to the matrix, all

biofilm can be eliminated. There will be zero need for disinfectant. The Archaea reduce all

organic matter into its elemental form. It is non pathogenic and non mutational. (pH range of 5.5

to 10.0; Temp range 350 F to 1850 F). Cost is pennies per application.

Archaea are microorganisms which are similar to bacteria in size and simplicity of structure but

radically different in molecular organization. They are now believed to constitute an ancient

group which is intermediate between the bacteria and eukaryotes. Archaea are considered as any

of the unicellular microorganisms that resemble bacteria but are genetically distinct

from bacteria and eukaryotes, in certain aspect of their chemical structure such as composition of

its cell walls. They are considered as a separate kingdom in some classification system but a

division of the prokaryotes in others. They often inhabit under extreme environmental conditions

such as high temperature and salinity. One in the three-domain system (the other are bacteria

and Eukaryota) which includes halophiles (microorganisms that may inhabit extremely salty

environments), methanogens (microorganisms that produce methane), and thermophiles

(microorganisms that can thrive extremely hot environments). Archaea or archaebacteria evolved

separately from eubacteria and eukaryotes. They are similar with eubacteria in being prokaryotes

and lacking distinct cell nucleus. They differ in terms of ribosomal structure, the possession

of introns (in some species) and in membrane structure or composition. They are similar

to eukaryotes in ways that Archaea possess genes and several metabolic pathways that are more

closely related to those of eukaryotes: notably the enzymes involve in transcription and

translation. They are regarded to be living fossils and survivors of an ancient group of organisms

that bridged the gap in evolution between eubacteria and eukaryotes.

Use chloramines, Weak disinfectant but persistent and low DBP formation, Possible nitrite

produced in long systems. In order to control becoming better the proliferation of biofilm in the

pipes we need to consider the following points:

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� Chois the lining of the pipes.

� Optimize the profile volumes.

� Ensure adequate flushing of the pipelines during commissioning.

� Master water leaks from the outside to the inside and vice versa.

� Optimize the contact time water / disinfectant

� Ensure adequate disinfectant residual rate (it must not exceed the rate allowed by

the standard)

Maintain process control whatever disinfectant is being used. Practice an aggressive flushing

problem, one that will strip biofilms, clean water storage tanks which can serve as storage

reservoirs for organism growth, including pathogens and nitrifying bacteria. If you can use free

chlorine, stay with that. If not, careful control of chloramination must be practiced or nitrification

of the total chlorine concentration will ensue. The only way to remove biofilm from services is

by shock dosing with chlorine dioxide @ 200 ppm. Keep the water in the service pipeline for 2

to 3 hours. Then drain out the water. Once all the biofilm is removed from the pipeline system,

you can then move to a constant dosing of the drinking water @ 1ppm dose. USEPA has

approved the use of chlorine dioxide in drinking water up to a dose of 5ppm. Once the water is

constantly dosed with chlorine dioxide there will be no growth of new biofilm.

While there is no way to eliminate biofilm, as said above, shock dosing of chlorine dioxide at

intervals will certainly help. There are many bio-dispersants, mostly low molecular weight

polymers, which help in flushing out the dead bugs and debris from the system, but these, are not

allowed for drinking water. Another constraint is that there is no easy / practical method for

flushing out debris from drinking water distribution lines. The biofilm might reduce friction

losses and even improve water quality but will most probably cause corrosion in pipelines.

Pigging of pipelines will work if nothing else does. If using chloramines and biofilm growth

becomes problematic, switch to a period feed of free chlorine. But this should be done as a last

resort, not routinely. GenEon Technologies produces both HOCl and a range of High pH

cleaners and degreasers

� HOCl is the chemical formula for hypochlorous acid—a weak acid formed when chlorine

is dissolved in water.

� It is used as a superior replacement for bleach, an oxidizer, a odor killer, a

sanitizer/disinfectant, and a cleaner with a 30-second-1 minute kill time on pathogens.

� It is 80—200 times stronger than bleach, but also safe for surfaces, plants, animals, and

humans.

If water is purified by ozonation and UV, the problem of biofilm growth can be controlled.

Can Biofilm Growth be limited or controlled by Ozonation of the end product water? The ECA

is the answer.

Electro Chemical Activation:

The Electro Chemical Activation process, better known as ECA is not a new technology. Dating

back to the 70’s, this technology was invented and used in Russia primarily in the mining

industry for drill lubrication. In later years, greater benefits of the technology, particularly the

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Anolyte (disinfectant) solution became understood and then used in Russian hospitals for

disinfection. ECA Technology is a replacement for traditional disinfection and chemical cleaning

processes. ECA’s Anolyte and Catholyte solutions are created by mixing pure, readily available

food grade salt with softened water, thereafter passing it through patented reactors, located inside

the ECA device cabinets, which are the core of the ECA device. Once inside the reactor cells, the

mild salt water is activated by way on an electrical charge and two distinct solutions are

produced:

� Anolyte which is used as a disinfectant

� Catholyte which is used as a detergent

ECA technology has secured FDA and EU approval for use as an advanced disinfectant in the

food and beverage processing industries.

Biofilm in water systems can be eliminated with ‘ECA-Solution’ made from softened water and

potassium chloride. Environmental friendly product produced and dosed with ECA-Unit. Drain-

heaters en UV-units doesn’t have effect to bio-films, because they have no after-effect into water

systems. Only disinfecting of the water in these machines is possible, but the negative side effect

is this that they feed the biofilm! During a crop change period, without plants in the greenhouse,

the biofilm in water systems can be removed with cleaning agents such as sodium hypochlorite

and/or nitric acid in separate treatments. During plant growing season the biofilm can be

prevented and controlled with the plant safe ECA-Solution. Apparently, the ECA-Unit is an extra

advantage for clean and safe water systems besides the use of Drain heaters or UV-units.

Electrolysis of Water and Potassium chloride:

Electrolysis is a well known technology. The ECA-Unit makes in an electrolysis process from

softened tap water with diluted potassium chloride a high quality ECA-Solution. This is a mix of

free radicals and oxidants and these active compounds react with all kind of micro-organisms

and eliminate them. For protection of electrolyser, membrane is needed high quality potassium

chloride without anti-caking ingredients. The affair with Legionella from biofilms in water pipes

brought ECA-Solution in the spotlight and has been subsequently developed for horticulture.

Royal Brinkman started in 2007 with electrolysis systems in England and delivers since summer

2010 worldwide EAC-Units for use in greenhouse horticulture.

ECA-Solution

ECA-Solution contains free chlorine as hypochlorite and hypochlorous acid. Last component is

the most active one and is main component by pH 6 and lower. The free radicals and some

oxidants of the ECA-Solution combat with biofilms and the pathogens hidden therein. ECA-

Solution causes oxidation of all organic compounds in water and in the biofilm. The biofilm

erodes to crumbled dirty which easily can be flushed out. Micro-organisms will no longer attach

and hide themselves on clean walls. By a controlled dosage the ECA-Solution is no risk for

plants and is safe for the nature environment. ECA-Solution is useful for disinfecting and

cleaning of water installations for sprinkling and drip irrigation. ECA-Solution is effective as

biocide to eliminate biofilms in water systems including the hidden place for all kind of micro-

organism such as non pathogen and pathogens organism for plants. And last but not least, the

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free chlorine components from the electrolyzed potassium chloride will return to potassium

fertilizer after they have done their good job.

Dosing ECA-Solution

Dosing of the ECA-Solution into the mixing vessel or dosing into another central location of the

water system is PLC controlled and accurate based on water flow to the water installation. The

needed concentration of ECA Solution depends on the degree of contamination in the entire

water system (including tanks) at the start and varies from 6 to 10 ppm free chlorine. Once the

pipes and water become clean the dosage may drop to 4 ppm or even lower. The effectiveness

can be controlled via measuring of the free chlorine concentration in the water installation.

Mechanical Cleaning Using “Pigging” is probably the safest and most efficient way of

cleaning the existing biofilm because of risk by flushing chemicals down a line. Pigging in the

context of pipelines refers to the practice of using devices known as "pigs" to perform various

maintenance operations on a pipeline. This is done without stopping the flow of the product in

the pipeline. These operations include but are not limited to cleaning and inspecting the pipeline.

This is accomplished by inserting the pig into a 'pig launcher' (or 'launching station') - an

oversized section in the pipeline, reducing to the normal diameter. The launcher / launching

station is then closed and the pressure-driven flow of the product in the pipeline is used to push it

along down the pipe until it reaches the receiving trap – the 'pig catcher' (or 'receiving station').

The original pigs were made from straw wrapped in wire and used for cleaning. They made a

squealing noise while traveling through the pipe, sounding to some like a pig squealing, which

gave pigs their name. 'PIG' is sometimes claimed as an acronym or backronym derived from the

initial letters of the term 'Pipeline Inspection Gauge' or 'Pipeline Intervention Gadget'.

Pigging has been used for many years to clean large diameter pipelines in the oil industry.

Today, however, the use of smaller diameter pigging systems is now increasing in many

continuous and batch process plants as plant operators search for increased efficiencies and

reduced costs.

Pigging can be used for almost any section of the transfer process between, for example,

blending, storage or filling systems. Pigging systems are already installed in industries handling

products as diverse as lubricating oils, paints, chemicals, toiletries, cosmetics and foodstuffs.

Pigs are used in lube oil or paint blending to clean the pipes to avoid cross-contamination, and to

empty the pipes into the product tanks (or sometimes to send a component back to its tank).

Usually pigging is done at the beginning and at the end of each batch, but sometimes it is done in

the midst of a batch, such as when producing a premix that will be used as an intermediate

component.

Pigs are also used in oil and gas pipelines to clean the pipes. There are also 'smart pigs' used to

inspect pipelines for the purpose of preventing leaks that can be explosive and dangerous to the

environment. They usually do not interrupt production, though some product can be lost when

the pig is extracted. They can also be used to separate different products in a multiproduct

pipeline. If the pipeline contains butterfly valves, or reduced port ball valves, the pipeline cannot

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be pigged. Full port (or full bore) ball valves cause no problems because the inside diameter of

the ball is the same as that of the pipe.

2. In large distribution systems it is common to top-up the disinfectant (Cl2) at more than one

location to keep satisfactory levels at the end of the network without overdosing at the treatment

works or reservoir.

3. Most importantly: Minimize biofouling and reduce disinfection by-products by improving the

efficiency of the Treatment Works through better operation and maintenance. Only then look at

upgrade options and newer or more appropriate technologies.

MICROBIAL CONTAMINATION:

Securing the microbial safety of drinking-water supplies is based on the use of multiple barriers,

from catchment to consumer, to prevent the contamination of drinking-water or to reduce

contamination to levels not injurious to health. Safety is increased if multiple barriers are in

place, including protection of water resources, proper selection and operation of a series of

treatment steps and management of distribution systems (piped or otherwise) to maintain and

protect treated water quality. The preferred strategy is a management approach that places the

primary emphasis on preventing or reducing the entry of pathogens into water sources and

reducing reliance on treatment processes for removal

of pathogens.

In general terms, the greatest microbial risks are

associated with ingestion of water that is

contaminated with human or animal (including bird)

faeces. Faeces can be a source of pathogenic

bacteria, viruses, protozoa and helminths.

Faecally derived pathogens are the principal

concerns in setting health-based targets for microbial safety. Microbial water quality often varies

rapidly and over a wide range. Short-term peaks in pathogen concentration may increase disease

risks considerably and may trigger outbreaks of waterborne disease. Furthermore, by the time

microbial contamination is detected, many people may have been exposed. For these reasons,

reliance cannot be placed solely on end-product testing, even when frequent, to ensure the

microbial safety of drinking-water.

The biggest source of microbial contamination of drinking water is the cross contamination of

leaking sewage with leaking treated drinking water in the underground tunnel. Apparently, the

supply of microbial contaminants to drinking water pipelines almost remains unabated.

However, within this limitation Chlorine dioxide is a very effective biocide to control biofilm.

Chlorine dioxide works at very low level, it does not react with organic impurities to form THM

and it works even in alkaline pH very effectively.

Trihalomethanes (THMs) are chemical compounds in which three of the four hydrogen atoms

of methane (CH4) are replaced by halogen atoms. Many Trihalomethanes find uses in industry as

solvents or refrigerants. THMs are also environmental pollutants, and many are considered

carcinogenic. Trihalomethanes with all the same halogen atoms are called haloforms.

The potential health consequences of microbial contamination are such that its control must always be of paramount importance and must never be compromised.

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Trihalomethanes are formed as a by-product predominantly when chlorine is used to disinfect

water for drinking. They represent one group of chemicals generally referred to as disinfection

by-products. They result from the reaction of chlorine or bromine with organic matter present in

the water being treated. The THMs produced have been associated through epidemiological

studies with some adverse health effects. Many governments set limits on the amount

permissible in drinking water. However, Trihalomethanes are only one group of many hundreds

of possible disinfection by-products—the vast majority of which are not monitored—and it has

not yet been clearly demonstrated which of these are the most plausible candidate for causation

of these health effects. In the United States, the EPA limits the total concentration of the four

chief constituents (chloroform, bromoform, bromodichloromethane, and dibromochloromethane)

referred to as (TTHM) to 80 parts per billion in treated water.

Chloroform is also formed in swimming pools which are disinfected with chlorine or

hypochlorite in the haloform reaction with organic substances (e.g. urine, sweat, hair and skin

particles). Some of the THMs are quite volatile and may easily vaporize into the air. This makes

it possible to inhale THMs while showering, for example. The EPA, however, has determined

that this exposure is minimal compared to that from consumption. In swimmers, uptake of THMs

is greatest via the skin with dermal absorption accounting for 80 per cent of THM uptake.

Exercising in a chlorinated pool increases the toxicity of a "safe" chlorinated pool atmosphere

with toxic effects of chlorine byproducts greater in young swimmers than older swimmers.

Studies in adolescents have shown an inverse relationship between serum testosterone levels and

the amount of time spent in public pools. Chlorination by-products have been linked as a

probable cause.

CHLORITARD:

CHLORITARD is the unique way to treat / disinfect entire bulk of water required for all

activities at the 'Point of Consumption ‘and can simply be described as “Scientist’s Dream

Product” as it fulfills all the criteria for purified water. When a CHLORITARD pouch is

suspended in a water storage tank, it releases chlorine slowly in the water for a period of at least

30 days continuously. It prevents quick release of Chlorine and maintains free Chlorine level

to more than 0.2 ppm. The amount of chlorine released is sufficient to kill the bacteria present in

the water as well as maintain desired level of free residual chlorine (above 0.2 ppm) for

inhibiting rejuvenation and propagation of bacteria by “Dark Repair” process. Thus, the water

treated with CHLORITARD becomes totally safe and hygienic. Since chlorine gets released very

slowly, CHLORITARD has much longer shelf life as compared to that of bleaching

powder. CHLORITARD pouches are available in various sizes depending on Tank Capacity and

daily water consumption. Slow release of chlorine of this measured dose is adjusted to kill

present bacteria and to maintain desired level of free residual chlorine. Thus, the water treated

with CHLORITARD becomes totally safe to use.

Need of CHLORITARD:

The incidences of water borne diseases are found to be 3000 to 4000 times higher in the families

treating only drinking water using sophisticated equipment with latest technology and even

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boiling water. These findings are statistically, scientifically significant and are accepted, are

published in leading Health Journal from London: The Lancet March 1997. The use of

contaminated water can result in water borne disease. For example, one person with cholera

excretes 1013 infectious bacteria every day. The infectious dose of cholera is about 106 bacteria

or so, thus theoretically one person can infect up to 10 million people every day!!

Salient Features:

The application of CHLORITARD does not require machinery, electricity, skilled operator and

daily monitoring .Slow release of chlorine offers much longer shelf life, as compared to that of

bleaching powder. The advantage of measured dose with slow release mechanism avoids excess

chlorination. Calcium does not get transferred to water but remains in the pouch when

CHLORITARD pouch is suspended in water storage tank. This eliminates problem of sludge

formation and recontamination of water.

Use of CHLORITARD at the point of consumption does not give time to bacteria to grow, as

water is consumed immediately as soon as it is out of water tank Able to provide a residual effect

for sufficient time to guard against re contamination and be in line with the internationally

accepted guidelines on water quality Simple and safe to use, distribute and transport, including in

remote areas.

CHLORITARD has been submitted to WHO International Scheme to Evaluate Household Water

Treatment Technologies at negligible cost of US$0.0001 – US$0.0008 per litre( for 30 days

depending upon on the water reservoir/tank treated as per capacity of tank ( 100 liters to 50,000

liters x 30 days) for 30 days.

CHLORITARD is safe water controlling pouch for water storage tank/ over-head tanks in

apartments/Bungalows/storage tanks maintaining 0.5 ppm. Thus safe water cleans from

contamination and saves money on doctor/medical bills.

CHLORITARD is available in pouches suitable from chlorine=0.5 ppm regulation/control

depending upon storage tank size – 100 liter to 50,000 litre x 30 days ( chlorine control = 0.5

ppm). Apparently, one pouch for 500 litres if purchased controls chlorine – 0.5 ppm for 30 days,

i.e. US $ 7.95 (1 pouch) CHLORITARD for 500 litres x 30 days = 15,000 litres per month =

reservoir tank treated = INR 1 to 2 paise per litre- control of chlorine = 0.5 ppm( killing

pathogens + G I (Gastrointestinal) disease.

As one CHLORITARD pouch works effectively for at least 30 days, the problem of climbing up

the ESR every day is eliminated. This leaves very little scope for irregularity & lapses in dosing,

which are more harmful.

While using CHLORITARD it is not necessary to ascertain the chlorine demand of water

because CHLORITARD pouch automatically releases amount of chlorine required to satisfy

chlorine demand and maintain free residual chlorine. Only the required quantity of chlorine is

released hence there is no possibility of excess chlorine, which is commonly observed by any

other methods of dosing chlorine.

Thus chloramines formation possibility is remote when Chloritard is used for water disinfection.

Hence the only disadvantage of using chlorine for water disinfection can be eliminated. The

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chlorine level of the water being treated with CHLORITARD

remains consistent for a period of at least 30 days. Therefore

problem of drastic variation in chlorine levels with time

encountered in other methods of chlorine dosing including

by bleaching powder is totally eliminated.

As one CHLORITARD pouch works effectively for at least

30 days, the problem of climbing up the ESR every day is

eliminated. This leaves very little scope for irregularity & lapses in dosing, which are more

harmful. Thus it can be said that

There are two process technologies that could be used for drinking water treatment

Capacitive Recovery System:

This is a process used for the removal of contaminants from drinking water by removing both

nitrates and ammonia. This process is part of electricity based desalination process and it

removes anions and cations. The process has a much higher water recovery than Reverse

Osmosis i. e. it is up to 90 per cent more efficient.

Pure Water:

This is a practical solution for short or long term clean water supply, is easily transportable, fully

automated, can be remotely monitored and controlled, has a low capex (capital expenditure) and

conforms to HSE (Health and Safety Environment) requirements as well as exceeding and or

meeting DWI (Drinking Water Institute) and WHO (World Health Organization) standards, has

very low energy usage, does not use reverse osmosis or traditional chlorine generators. The

treated water is microbiologically safe to drink and with no detectable presence of coli forms (

including E Coli) Clostridia Perfringens or Enterococci, its sterilizing and disinfectant qualities

means that system is kept clean and prolongs storage life of treated water .

Interesting question: there are some physical methods (membranes, ultrasound) that can be very

effective on the local biofilm control... and they let no "taste" on the water.... however, I think

that you want to have a good and safety water, a consumption point (end of pipe) filter might be

requested.

The bacteria survive from treatment and due to contamination through finished water reservoirs

enter pipe network and develops EPS which protects bacteria and attracts more bacteria to attach

on the pipe wall. It has been observed a thick biofilm of 2 to 4mm which largely increase head

CHLORITARD A MONTH

KEEPS A DOCTOR AWAY

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loss along the pipe. But Mechanical Scraping may not be cheaper and not easy also. The question

is how we clean this biofilm layer from the pipeline using cheaper and safer method.

WaterWaterWaterWater ((((Prevention Prevention Prevention Prevention and and and and Control Control Control Control of of of of PollutionPollutionPollutionPollution) ) ) ) ActActActAct 1974197419741974 Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 is a comprehensive legislation that

regulates agencies responsible for checking on water pollution and ambit of pollution control

boards both at the centre and states. The Water Act, 1974 was adopted by the Indian parliament

with the aim of prevention and control of Water Pollution in India. The Act was amended in

1988. The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act was enacted in 1977, to provide

for the levy and collection of a cess on water consumed by persons operating and carrying on

certain types of industrial activities. This cess is collected with a view to augment the resources

of the Central Board and the State Boards for the prevention and control of water pollution

constituted under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. The Act was last

amended in 2003.Some of the important sections regulating the prevention of water pollution as

per the act are as discussed below.

Functions of the State Board

The Central Pollution Control Board, and State

Pollution Control Boards composition, terms and

conditions of service of members are defined in

Sections 3-12 of water (prevention and control of

pollution) act, 1974. The Board advises the

government on any matter concerning the

prevention and control of water pollution. It

coordinates the activities and provides technical

assistance and guidance. This policy sets the

standards and penalties for non-compliance for

polluting bodies. The Government has power to restrict any unit, and to take samples of effluents

and get them analyzed in Central or State laboratories. Whoever fails to comply with any

provision of this Act is punishable with imprisonment, fine or with both.

Section 17 of the Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 clearly lists all functions

of the respective state boards for countering water pollution. The state board of respective states

is empowered to plan a comprehensive program for the prevention, control or abatement of

pollution of streams and wells, collect and disseminate information relating to water pollution

and encourage, conduct and participate in investigations and research relating to problems of

water pollution and prevention.

The state water boards also have the right to inspect sewage or trade effluents, works and plants

for the treatment of sewage and trade effluents and to review all water purification plants. The

Board may establish or recognize a laboratory or laboratories to enable the Board to perform its

functions under this section efficiently, including the analysis of samples of water from any

stream or well or of samples of any sewage or trade effluents.

Water Contamination


The Central Board may perform all or any of the following functions, namely,-

� advise the Central Government on any matter concerning the prevention and control of

water pollution;

� co-ordinate the activities of the State Boards and resolve disputes among them;

� provide technical assistance and guidance to the State Boards, carry out and sponsor

investigations and research relating to problems of water pollution and prevention,

control or abatement of water pollution;

� plan and organise the training of persons engaged or to be engaged in programmes for the

prevention, control or abatement of water pollution on such terms and conditions as the

Central Board may specify;

� organise through mass media a comprehensive programme regarding the prevention and

control of water pollution;

� collect, compile and publish technical and statistical data relating to water pollution and

the measures devised for its effective prevention and control and prepare manuals, codes

or guides relating to treatment and disposal of sewage and trade effluents and disseminate

information connected therewith;

� lay down, modify or annul, in consultation with the State Government concerned, the

standards for a stream or well;

� plan and execute a nation-wide programme for the prevention, control or abatement of

water pollution;

� perform such other functions as may be prescribed.

Consent of the State Board is necessary to discharge sewage

Section 25 of the Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 states that Prior Consent

of the State Board under section 25 is necessary to set up any industry, plant or process which is

likely to discharge sewage or trade effluent into a stream or well or sewer or on land or bring into

use any new or altered outlets for the discharge of sewage or begin to make any new discharge of

sewage. The section further states that every State Board is liable to maintain a register

containing particulars or conditions imposed under the section related to any outlet, or to any

effluent, from any land or premises which must be open to inspection by the state board.

Power to Take Emergency Measures

Section 32 of the Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 describes the power to

take emergency measures in case of pollution of stream or well. Under the act, State Board may

issue orders to re move the matter, which is, or may cause pollution; or remedy or mitigate the

pollution, or issue prohibition orders to the concerned persons from discharging any poisonous or

noxious or polluting matter.

Water Contamination


Section 24 and 43 of the Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 relate to

prohibition on use of stream or well for disposal of polluting matter and penalty for

contravention thereof Under the scope of the provision, no person shall knowingly cause or

permit any poisonous, noxious or polluting mater as determined by the State Board to enter into

any stream or sewer or on land. Anyone failing to abide by the laws of under is liable for

imprisonment under Section 24 & Section 43 ranging from not less than one year and six months

to six years along with monetary fines. The section further states that No person shall knowingly

cause or permit to enter any other matter which may impede the flow of water of the stream

causing pollution of any kind.

Penalties and Fines

Section 42 of the of the Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 states penalties and

fines for certain acts including pulling down pillars, Obstructs any person acting under the orders

or direction of the Board, Damages any works or property belonging to the Board and Failure to

furnish any officer other employee of the Board any information required. The fine and penalty

includes Imprisonment for a term which may extend

up to three months or with fine to Rs. 10,000/- or both.

Understanding Water Class

Depending on the pollution of the water, water is

demarked under various water classes in accordance

with the Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution)

Act, 1974. Drinking water at source found without

conventional treatment but after disinfection is

designated as Class A while water designated for

outdoor bathing comes under Class B. Any drinking

water source which has been conventionally treated

comes under Class C while water used for propagation

of wildlife and fisheries is demarked as Class D. Water under Class E is used for irrigation and

industrial cooling along with waste disposal.

All people have safe and equitable access to a sufficient quantity of water for drinking, cooking

and personal and domestic hygiene. Public water points are sufficiently close to households to

enable use of the minimum water requirement.

Key Indicators

� Average water use for drinking, cooking and personal hygiene in any household is at

least 15 litres per person per day.

� The maximum distance from any household to the nearest water point is 500 metres.

� Queuing time at a water source is no more than 15 minutes.

� It takes no more than three minutes to fill a 20-litre container.

� Water sources and systems are maintained such that appropriate quantities of water are

available consistently or on a regular basis.

Water Contamination


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Water Contamination


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Water Contamination


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Water Contamination


Annex 1

Waterborne Diseases

Disease Pathogen Symptoms Causes Incubation

Adenovirus Infection Adenoviridae virus Vary depending on which

part of the body is

infected

Drinking contaminated water 5-8 days

Amebiasis Entamoeba

histolytica parasite

Diarrhea, stomach pain,

and stomach cramping

Fecal matter of an infected

person (usually ingested from

a pool or an infected water

supply)

2 to 4 weeks

Campylobacteriosis Campylobacter

jejuni bacteria

Chicken, unpasteurized milk,

water

2 to 10 days

Cryptosporidiosis Cryptosporidiumparasite Stomach cramps,

dehydration, nausea,

vomiting, fever, weight

loss

Fecal matter of an infected

person (can survive for days

in chlorinated pools)

2 to 10 days

Cholera Vibrio choleraebacteria Watery diarrhea,

vomiting, and leg cramps

Contaminated drinking

water, rivers and coastal

waters

Two hours to

5 days

E. Coli 0157:H7 Escherichia colibacteria Diarrhea (may be

bloody), abdominal pain,

nausea, vomiting, fever,

HUS

Undercooked ground beef,

imported cheeses,

unpasteurized milk or juice,

cider, alfalfa sprouts

1 to 8 days

Water Contamination


Giardiasis Giardia lambliaparasite Diarrhea, excess gas,

stomach or abdominal

cramps, and upset

stomach or nausea

Swallowing recreational

water contaminated

with Giardia

1 to 2 weeks

Hepatitis A Hepatitis A virus Fever, fatigue, stomach

pain, nausea, dark urine,

jaundice

Ready-to-eat foods, fruit and

juice, milk products,

shellfish, salads, vegetables,

sandwiches, water

28 days

Legionellosis Legionella

pneumophilabacteria

Fever, chills, pneumonia,

anorexia, muscle aches,

diarrhea and vomiting

Contaminated water 2-10 days

Salmonellosis Salmonellabacteria Abdominal pain,

headache, fever, nausea,

diarrhea, chills, cramps

Poultry, eggs, meat, meat

products, milk, smoked fish,

protein foods, juice

1-3 days

Vibrio Infection Vibrio

parahaemolyticus,Vibrio

vulnificusbacteria

Nausea, vomiting,

headache (a quarter of

patients experience

dysentery-like symptoms)

Raw shellfish, oysters 1 to 7+ days

Viral Gastroenteritis Calicivirus virus Diarrhea, vomiting,

nausea, cramps,

headache, muscle aches,

tiredness, slight fever

Water, ready-to-eat foods

(salad, sandwiches, bread)

shellfish

24 to 48 hours

Source:

Water Contamination: Way Forward

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