Tap water quality in Āshuganj City, Chittagong? Is it safe to drink?

Overview

Ashuganj City, located near Chittagong, Bangladesh, is a growing urban area facing significant water quality challenges. The city sources its water primarily from nearby rivers and underground reserves. However, due to rapid urbanization and industrial growth, the water quality in Ashuganj does not consistently meet national and international safety standards. Addressing these water quality issues is critical for the health and well-being of its residents.

Water Quality Issues

Source: The main sources of water in Ashuganj are local rivers and ground water reserves. These sources are increasingly exposed to pollutants from industrial activities and agricultural runoff, which have raised concerns about the purity and safety of the water.

Testing: Regular water testing is crucial to ensure safety. Current testing measures in Ashuganj reveal elevated levels of heavy metals and organic pollutants, which pose potential health risks.

Standards: According to standards set by the Department of Public Health Engineering (DPHE) and guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO), Ashuganj’s water often falls short. Key parameters such as pH level, turbidity, and contamination by harmful microorganisms need to be monitored more accurately and frequently.

Water Hardness: Many households in Ashuganj experience issues related to water hardness, primarily due to an overabundance of calcium and magnesium ions in groundwater. Hard water can affect daily activities, notably washing, cooking, and personal hygiene.

Concerns: Residents have expressed concerns over the long-term impacts of consuming contaminated water. Issues like gastrointestinal diseases, skin irritations, and other health-related problems are reportedly linked to poor water quality.

Recommendations

Improving water quality in Ashuganj requires a multi-faceted approach. Implementing effective filtration and treatment strategies can help. Residents and local authorities are encouraged to:

1. Use Water Filters: Employ point-of-use water filters at the household level to ensure every drop consumed is free from contaminants.
2. Install Softeners: Use water softeners to tackle water hardness, thus reducing the build-up of minerals that can damage household appliances and impact daily activities.
3. Advocate for Improved Infrastructure: Engage in community efforts to push for modernized water treatment facilities and infrastructure improvements by local government.

Through collective action and awareness, Ashuganj City can work towards the goal of cleaner, safer water for all its residents.