Assessment of Bacteriological Quality of Drinking Water in a Rural Tertiary Healthcare Institute of Haryana: A Record-based Descriptive Study

Abstract

Introduction: Of all natural resources, water is one of the most essential and precious resources. It forms 70% of our body weight and acts as a necessary vehicle for all metabolic processes in the body. Water is exposed to various contaminants animal wastes, human wastes, etc. which affect the biological quality of water. So, water quality monitoring becomes an essential component for formulating measures and addressing the issues to safeguard public health. Aim: To assess the bacteriological quality of drinking water in a rural tertiary healthcare institute in Haryana. Materials and Methods: This descriptive, record-based, retrospective study was conducted in Bhagat Phool Singh Government Medical College for Women Khanpur, Kalan, Sonepat, Haryana, India (rural tertiary healthcare institute), from 1st January 2016 to 31st December 2018. The water samples were collected, transported, and analysed according to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for drinking water quality assessment and the Indian Council Medical Research (ICMR). Incomplete records with respect to inadequate samples and reporting issue were excluded from the study. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22.0. Results: Out of a total of 422 tested water samples 244 (58%) were found satisfactory while 178 (42%) unsatisfactory i.e. unfit for human consumption. From March to mid-June (summer season) 56 (31%) and from mid-June to mid-September (rainy season) 74 (42%) of water samples were found unsatisfactory while, 63 (26%) water samples were observed fit for human consumption in mid-September to mid-December (postmonsoon season) and 76 (31%) in mid-December to February season (winter season). Seasonal variations were recorded for water quality reporting. Conclusion: Comprehensive planning and feasible approach are to be followed prior to hot weather and rainy season for the provision of safe and potable drinking water