Contaminated water triggers alarm in Omaxe society on Pakhowal Road
A serious public health concern has again surfaced in Omaxe society on Pakhowal Road as coliform contamination was found in water samples taken from the residential complex.
According to the report (the copy of which is with The Tribune), water registered a most probable number (MPN) of 43 for coliform bacteria — suggesting possible faecal contamination and exposure to harmful pathogens.
Samples have been failing the test since 2018 and all reports are in possession with The Tribune.
Health experts warn that such water poses significant risks, especially to children, senior citizens and people with weak immune systems.
“MPN levels above permissible limits aren’t just numbers, they’re markers of waterborne illnesses waiting to happen,” said one expert.
Residents, many of whom are doctors, entrepreneurs and professionals, have expressed frustration. “We stay in a premium society but our basic right of getting clean drinking water is constantly compromised,” said a long-time resident.
“What’s more infuriating is the lack of urgency from the society management even after alarming reports, no emergency response, no alternative water supply and no clear communication,” he said.
This isn’t a new issue. Residents said water contamination had been recurring during monsoon season for almost seven years. A resident, who is staying here since 2018, said: “Water smells foul sometimes. I boil it before drinking but not everyone is following the method. We’ve seen entire towers suffer from gastrointestinal issues simultaneously. Why do we have to beg for clean water?”
Despite repeated complaints, the residents alleged that the management rarely acts proactively.
“We literally have to ask umpteen times to get tanks cleaned,” another resident said.
“Despite all this, proper sanitation protocols are often ignored. We want the management to treat water safety not only as a seasonal chore but also as a year-round priority,” the residents demanded.
Though the society belongs to real estate developer, Omaxe, daily operations are undertaken by the Resident Welfare Association (RWA) and outsourced facility management. With this year’s crisis unfolding yet again, the residents are demanding fresh water testing, identification of contamination sources and immediate supply of potable water via tankers or packaged sources.
Harsh Chaudhary, AGM at Facility Plus (Facility Plus provides maintenance and upkeep services at Omaxe), said: “A few residents raised concerns and we’ve sent samples to the Health Department for checking. We’re awaiting the reports and will act accordingly once the same arrives.”
When asked about failed samples in the past, Chaudhary said: “If a report fails, we take corrective measures. We also have reports of samples which passed the tests.”
However, the residents argue that reactive responses are no longer enough. Experts suggest thorough disinfection methods such as shock chlorination and a complete audit of the water supply infrastructure, including overhead tanks, distribution pipelines and filtration systems.
Ludhiana