KATHMANDU: After finding fecal coliform in 11 different brands of water, Kathmandu Metropolitan Municipality (KMC) has banned the sale and distribution of these brands.
These brands have been ordered to cease operations immediately, with each company facing a fine of Rs 2 lakh. The fines must be deposited into the city’s revenue account, according to a circular issued by KMC.
The affected companies must also submit a technical report from a government-approved laboratory proving that their water meets safety standards before they are allowed to resume sales.
Between Bhadra 12 and 28, KMC collected 20 water samples from various locations, and an additional sample was submitted following a consumer complaint. These samples were tested at the laboratory of Kathmandu Valley Water Supply Limited, where 11 out of 21 samples were found to contain fecal coliform bacteria.
The contamination levels, measured in Colony Forming Units (CFU) per 100 milliliters, exceeded the permissible standards. Treated drinking water is required to have zero coliform bacteria according to mandatory food safety standards, as coliform contamination can make water unsafe for consumption.
Some of the brands found to be contaminated include Fresh Drop, Aqua Pis, Aqua Tokha, and Kolbhoteshwar, with fecal coliform levels ranging from 23 CFU to over 300 CFU. A sample of Fresh Drop water taken on Bhadra 18 showed 23 CFU, while Aqua Pis had 80 CFU and Aqua Tokha had 30 CFU. Kolbhoteshwar brand water, produced by Uttaravahini Food and Beverages, contained a staggering 116 CFU.
Other affected brands, such as Aqua DV, Aqua Mild, Aqua Kapan and Cube Process Drinking Water, had even higher contamination levels. Aqua Gaurshankar water, produced by Koshi Mineral Industries, registered over 300 CFU, indicating severe contamination.
KMC has stated that the banned companies must ensure their water is free of fecal coliform before they can resume distribution. Public health experts warn that contaminated drinking water can pose significant health risks, as fecal coliform indicates the presence of harmful microorganisms.
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