Assessing Potable Water Quality in Tansa Dam, Bhiwandi: A Case Study on Microbial and Heavy Metal Contamination, Filtration Inefficiencies, and Post-Treatment Contamination

Abstract: Quality maintenance of drinking water is of utmost significance in terms of public health, especially for rural communities depending on surface water resources. Quality of filtered and unfiltered water samples of Tansa Dam, being one of the major suppliers of Bhiwandi, was investigated in this study. Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Most Probable Number (MPN), Microbiological examination, and heavy metal examination were conducted. BOD values reduced from Day 1 to Day 5, reflecting oxygen consumption by microorganism, stabilization of organic matter, improved water quality. MPN analysis indicated the presence of indicator microorganisms, reflecting potential microbial contamination. The presence of heavy metals in filtered water samples also reflects potential treatment efficiency problems and potential post-treatment contamination. These results highlight the necessity for tight monitoring and improved filtration processes in a bid to prevent non-compliance with drinking water quality standards. Additional research into new treatment technologies and ongoing monitoring is advisable to protect water quality and public health.