How Safe Is Jaipur’s Water? A Local Water Report You Must Read​

How Safe Is Jaipur’s Water? A Local Water Report You Must Read​

Jaipur, the Pink City, is renowned for its rich heritage and vibrant culture. However, beneath its historical charm lies a pressing concern: the safety and quality of its drinking water. With rapid urbanization and increasing demand, ensuring a safe and reliable water supply has become a significant challenge.​

Current State of Jaipur’s Water Supply

The Public Health and Engineering Department (PHED) of Rajasthan has initiated several projects to improve water supply in Jaipur. One of the ambitious goals is to provide water at least once every 24 hours to all urban households by 2030. This involves connecting all towns and cities with surface water sources and expanding pipeline connections to households. ​The Times of India+4The Times of India+4The Times of India+4

In collaboration with Denmark, PHED is also working on establishing a 24/7 water supply infrastructure in Jaipur, Udaipur, and Nawalgarh. Pilot projects in areas like Bani Park and Bajaj Nagar Enclave have shown promising results, with non-revenue water (NRW) reduction from 52% to 23%. ​Indian Infrastructure+1The Times of India+1

Water Quality Concerns

Despite these efforts, water quality remains a concern in several areas:

• Contamination Levels: A report indicates that at least 70% of Jaipur receives water with high concentrations of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) or bacterial contamination, or both. ​India Water Portal
• Fluoride Presence: Studies have shown that certain areas, especially around railway stations like Sanganer and Jagatpura, have fluoride concentrations exceeding permissible limits, leading to health issues like fluorosis. ​mail.cwejournal.org+1The Times of India+1
• Unsafe Water in Towns: PHED reports have identified 11 towns in Rajasthan where the water is deemed unpotable due to high concentrations of nitrates, TDS, and other contaminants. ​The Times of India+2The Times of India+2The Times of India+2

Infrastructure and Monitoring Challenges

While infrastructure projects are underway, challenges persist:​

• Delayed Implementation: The Jaipur Water Supply and Sewerage Board Act was passed in 2018 to streamline water and sewerage management. However, the board is yet to be constituted, delaying coordinated efforts. ​The Buck Stopper
• Monitoring Efforts: PHED has increased monitoring in areas affected by dirty water supply, conducting water testing more frequently in identified localities. ​The Times of India

What Can Residents Do?

While authorities work on long-term solutions, residents can take immediate steps to ensure water safety:

• Use Water Purifiers: Invest in reliable water purification systems that can remove contaminants like TDS and fluoride.​The Times of India
• Regular Maintenance: Clean and maintain water storage tanks and purifiers regularly to prevent bacterial growth.​
• Stay Informed: Keep abreast of local water quality reports and advisories issued by PHED and other authorities.​

Conclusion

Ensuring safe drinking water in Jaipur is a multifaceted challenge involving infrastructure development, quality monitoring, and community participation. While significant strides are being made, continued vigilance and proactive measures are essential to safeguard public health.​

For more detailed information and updates on Jaipur’s water supply initiatives, you can refer to the following sources:

• PHED to give water at least once a day to all urban homes by 2030
• PHED Rajasthan plans 24X7 water supply in Jaipur, Udaipur and Nawalgarh with Denmark’s help
• 11 towns in Rajasthan consume harmful water: PHED report
• At least 70% of Jaipur receives water with high concentration of TDS or contaminated by bacteria or both
• Despite Act in place, Jaipur Water Supply board still in limbo