John Wilbert & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, July 24: The concerns raised by the residents of various hamlets in Kamorta Island over the alleged supply of muddy and yellowish water have been addressed by the Andaman Public Works Department (APWD). After receiving several complaints from the Islanders and a report published by Andaman Sheekha Daily, senior APWD officials took immediate action to investigate the matter thoroughly.
Talking to Andaman Sheekha, a senior officer of APWD said that upon investigation, the PWD officials collected water samples from both the tap water supply and the water treatment plant. These samples were sent to Port Blair for laboratory testing, and the test reports have come back positive, indicating that the water is safe for consumption.
The senior APWD official assured the public that the water is clear and safe before treatment at the plant but may turn slightly yellowish due to the treatment process, which utilizes old technology involving sea sand filtration. He also explained that the filter bed used for water treatment is functioning well and does not pose any problems.
The APWD official also addressed the issue of muddy water during the first rain, stating that this is a common occurrence. The water tends to become turbid during heavy rainfall, but it usually settles down within a few days. He further informed that they have changed the LMI water pump, which was procured by the store division of APWD, but the colour of the water remains the same.
In light of the recent concerns raised by the Islanders, the APWD officials have requested the residents of Kamorta Island not to worry about the water supplied by the department, as it is safe for drinking. However, for those who still seek further reassurance, the officials invited them to visit the treatment plant for water sample testing.
